AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Seeing the atmosphere tonight, I could’ve used my sister’s presence. But, apparently, she had a ‘very important secret mission,’ which is probably following Remi around like a puppy. Or more like a grim reaper if we’re being honest.
But then again, I’m the one with a social-butterfly reputation. Surely, I can handle this.
With a smile, I refill both their glasses of wine. “So how are things lately, Papa?”
“They were fantastic until I met this eyesore presence. Why is he here again, pPrincess?”
“Because I’m her father-in-law,” Uncle Aiden answers with a mocking edge. “And you’re just livid that little Ava married into the King household. She even has our last name now. Must be sad to be you.”
“A reality that can be rectified.”
“But it won’t.”
“We’ll see about that.”
“Cole…” Mama says with the exasperation of someone who’s dealt with this a thousand times. “It’s Ava’s night.”
“Yes, Aiden,” Aunt Elsa supplies. “You promised to play nice.”
“I’m anything but nice, sweetheart. And this prick deserves everything but nice.”
“I’m going to knock your teeth out,” my father threatens.
“Papa, please,” I plead. “Can’t we enjoy dinner as a family?”
“Since when is Aiden your family?”
“Let me see…since she hasourlast name?”
Papa glares at him and he smirks.
“Admit it and cut your losses, Cole.”
“Ignore them.” Aunt Elsa pats my hand and places a dumpling on my plate. “I’m so proud of you, honey. You looked so bright on the stage.”
“Yes. You looked like a shining star, baby. I’m so happy you decided to follow your passion again.” Mama strokes my shoulder.
I smile. “Aw, thanks.”
“I’m sorry Eli couldn’t make it,” Aunt Elsa says in a sympathetic note.
My smile falters, but I refuse to let him ruin this for me, so I shrug. “You know him. Money and investment are more important to him than anything else. I don’t mind.”
“Well, I do. I’ll have a talk with his father, who’s been overworking him lately.”
“Pretty sure he’s overworking himself.”
“If you need me to talk some sense into him, I’m only a phone call away.”
I contemplate her offer. Aunt Elsa is the perfect weapon to use against her son since he respects and cares for his mum a great deal.
“I’ll take you up on that offer if needed,” I say with a sly smile.
We dig into our food as Mum and Aunt Elsa work their diplomacies with their husbands who seem hell-bent on leaving the restaurant with black eyes and bruised ribs.
After a while, I excuse myself to the bathroom and Mama says she’ll come with me.
Brilliant.
