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“Yeah. I’m a fan.” Blaine points to the seat across from him for Greyson to sit.
I resist an eye roll just as Regina McKnight comes creeping through the crowd with her husband Walter trailing behind. She’s literally creeping. Like she’s terrified to touch anyone or anything. Her mink stole is wrapped around her neck and she’s wearing silk gloves. And pearls.
“Mom, dad,” Blaine calls out, leaving my side to bring them to the table.
I take my seat, waving over Camille to sit next to me so I don’t have to sit next to his mother.
I scoot my chair in and take a deep breath. When I glance at Greyson, he still has a murderous expression on his face and it’s leading me to believe he heard our entire conversation outside.
Adam and Bekka take the seats next to Grey, and dad sits at one end of the table.
“Walter. Regina. it’s so great to finally meet you.” My dad stands just as they approach. “I’m Richard Harper. Tilly’s father.”
“Nice to meet you as well.” Walter shakes his hand, and he lets Regina greet him with an awkward wave.
“Richard. You have a lovely daughter,” she coos.
She comes up behind me, and not so subtly yells next to my ear. “Tilana, so good to see you!”
I wince away from her high pitch voice and pat the gloved hand that’s resting on my shoulder with a smile.
The rest of the introductions are made and we’re all finally seated, and drinks have been ordered. My nerves are all over the place. Number one, we’re in public, number two, our families couldn’t be more different and three, need I even say it. The brood that just accidentally slid his foot next to mine under the table then winked at me. Actually winked.
I’m going to need a lot of alcohol to make it through tonight.
The food finally arrived forty-five minutes later. It took Regina a solid ten to order because there were no vegan choices. Never mind the animal that died she’s got draped over her chair.
“So. Tilana.” Regina clears her throat, gaining everyone’s attention. No one calls me Tilana. Not even my family. “Can you hear me ok?”
Blood rushes to my cheeks, and I nod, instinctively lifting my hands to sign because I want to crawl out of my own skin. But Blaine’s hand lands over my mine, just as I begin to sign, and he presses them to the table. His eyes flicker to me in a scolding manner.
“Yes.” I swallow, moving my hands out from his and pick up my glass of water.
“Blaine tells me you booked May third for the wedding.” She smiles.
I practically choke on the water I just ingested. I cough, pressing a hand to my chest as Blaine rubs my back. “We actually.” I cough again. “Haven’t set a date.”
“Oh?” She gives her husband a glance. “They called to confirm the deposit this morning.”
I turn to Blaine who smiles nervously. “Baby, it’s a beautiful place and that was the only date available. Plus, why wait?” He reaches to touch my cheek. “We’re in love, right?”
That’s in five weeks.
I feel dizzy. The room is spinning. I may actually pass out.
“Refills anyone!”
Thank God the waitress breaks the tension, so I face the table. “Blaine and I will discuss the date and I will let everyone know.” I could feel him grip my thigh under the table, digging in his fingertips to show his disapproval.
My dad gives me a questioning look, but I smile to appease him. It’s only when my eyes meet Camille’s my heart sinks. She can see right through me and doubt has never been so present in my whole life.
Chapter 21
Greyson
I’ve never felt pure anger like this. When Blaine kept her from signing. Kept her from doing something that brings her comfort and security I almost dove across this fucking table. I order another drink, and Adam seems about as impressed as I am with this family.
I move my boot to the right, grazing Tilly’s heeled foot to get her attention. You ok? I sign.
