Page 174 of Contentious

“Who do you think did it all before you boys joined the firm?”

“Your team of associates?” Julian asked.

Carson coughed to hide his laughter. Good one, Jules.

“In spite of your doubts, I’m still a very capable attorney, and I will happily cover for you for as long as you need me, Griffin.”

“Wow, thanks, Dad. Truly. That means a lot.”

“Does that mean I have to be Dad’s associate?” Ethan asked. “Because I should get hazardous duty pay for that.”

The explosion of laughter took Carson out. He was wheezing from trying not to move while he laughed as hard as he had in ages.

“Now that you’ve all had your laughs,” Corbin said indignantly, “I’ll rely on Ethan and Jackson for help.”

“Wait a minute!” Jackson said. “I’ve got a full load already dealing with him.”

Carson could picture his brother using his thumb to point at Julian.

“I’m sure all of you can find a little time to help out as needed so your brother can have this time away, and I’m also sure that he’ll return the favor when the rest of you want to take paternity leaves.”

“I’m never doing that,” Ethan said.

“Me either,” Jackson replied. “We’ll never get paid back for this.”

“I’ll see that you two get some of my partner share for helping Dad,” Griffin said.

“Oh, well,” Ethan said, “now you’re talking my language.”

“Thought you might see it that way,” Griffin said drolly. “Are we done? I need to get back to work so I can leave on time. I’ve got plans tonight.”

“It would mean a lot to us to see you in Santa Barbara next Sunday,” Corbin said.

“Is it a command performance?” Ethan asked.

“Of course not. It’s a hopeful invitation. No strings attached. I was hoping one of you could bring your grandfather, too.”

“I will if I feel up to coming,” Carson said.

“Thank you, son.”

Carson could hear the others getting up and leaving the room.

“Are you still there, Carson?” Corbin asked.

“I am.”

“So that was excruciating. I’m sure it was for you guys, too.”

“That’s not the word I’d use. For me, it was somewhat refreshing to hear you take ownership for the mess you made of our lives.”

“Ouch.”

“Truth hurts, Dad.”

“Yes, it does, and I know I deserve the resentment you all feel toward us. If we had it to do over, everything would’ve been different.”

“You should say that to the others.”