Perry nodded. “I didn’t plan to. But things were so chaotic, and it’s Luci’s therapy dog.”
“You hate dogs. You’re afraid of them.”
Perry felt caught, although he wasn’t entirely sure at what. “It’s true. But I guess the circumstances demanded it. Besides, it’s not like anyone around here seems to need me.”
“Of course we need you. But this isn’t some crisis at work, this isourcrisis. We need to handle this together.”
Perry saw the hurt in her eyes. “That’s the point. We have each other. Olivia is all alone.”
“Funny. That’s how I’ve been feeling lately.”
“I was just trying to help her out.”
“That sounds nice, but it’s not your place. It’s Jake’s.” Amelia pressed her lips together.
“And look what a fine job he’s doing.”
He was closing the door behind him when he heard, “Be careful, Perry.”
Perry was already late, but he walked to the clubhouse anyway. Past the oversized houses along the water, past the lush green lawns and pillared driveway entrances. He’d worked his ass off toget into this neighborhood. The Candlewood Cove community. To be on the water, on the lake where he’d grown up. Where the air was crisper and scented with a hint of pine. Where he could think. But tonight, his thoughts ran wild.
The board members would already be seated around the big table in the dining room, waiting. Hell, they might well have started without him. The monthly meetings were attended by many of the community members, and despite the fact the meeting was held inside on this nice summer evening, he imagined the group was likely larger than warranted. It was unlikely there was a sole inhabitant of the cove who hadn’t heard the news or seen the picture and didn’t want to dip a toe in the ripple effect.
Jim O’Malley met him at the door. He looked at him with empathy. “Perry, good to see you. I wasn’t sure if you’d be coming.”
Perry had always liked Jim. He was a family man and a regular hand at the clubhouse, whether it was helping to get the docks in the water each year or manning the smoky grills at summer barbecues. “I’m here,” Perry said, maneuvering around him in the doorway.
“Hey.” Jim put a hand on his shoulder, and Perry paused. “How’re you holding up?”
“I’m here,” Perry said, again.
Jim grimaced. “Kids. They do the damnedest things. But she’s a good girl.”
As he crossed the special events room where they held their monthly meeting, Perry could feel others’ eyes on his back. Bob Engel, the former president, waved him over from the bar, where he was sipping a glass of bourbon on ice.
“Perry. I wondered if I could have a minute.”
Perry paused to shake hands. “Sorry Bob, the meeting is about to start.”
“Ah, yes. I’m having a bite with Ginny in the dining room myself, so I’ll be quick.”
Perry hesitated. Bob was no longer on the board, but he still had sway. Over Bob’s shoulder, Perry could see some of the other board members glancing their way. Did they know what Bob was about to say? Ted Hastings’s seat was notably empty.
Bob got right to the point. “Look, it’s come to everyone’s attention that there was a get-together at the Hastings’s house and things got a little out of hand.”
“Yes. It’s come to my attention that a board meeting was held this morning. Without me.”
Bob grimaced. “I was sorry to hear about what happened with your daughter. But I’m sure you understand the board had to review this without your input. Conflict of interest, and all.” He clapped Perry on the back. “I wanted to be sure we’re all still on the same page.”
Perry bristled. “Same page?”
“These things tend to pass, and the less fuss we make over them, the faster they do.” He studied Perry.
“I’m not sure that I follow. What page are you suggesting I be on?”
“Hey, now. All I’m saying is that we can handle this within the community. I heard you used some legalese with Ted Hastings, and I really don’t think we need to take things in that direction.” Bob swirled his tumbler of bourbon slowly.
“Ted Hastings has a long history here. His father and grandfather were two of the Club’s founding members. His family has done a lot for us.” Bob paused. “You’ve had to work your way up here, but don’t think I haven’t noticed what a nice job you do as president. This Club has provided your family with a lot: a certain lifestyle, social connections, business networks. I’d hate to seeanything change that.” Bob sipped his drink thoughtfully. “We’re all friends here, right?”
