“I think they’re both surgeons.” Sherry consulted her husband, who nodded. “Yes, that’s right. They both work at the hospital, and they have four kids. Of course, that place is huge, so there’s plenty of room for a large family. I always thought it was a shame that your folks only had one child in that enormous house.”
Jake’s jaw tensed. Couldn’t Sherry read the room?
Emily’s lip trembled, and he moved his fingers over her hand, hoping to soothe her. But it didn’t seem to help.Her leg began to bounce, brushing her jeans against Jake’s. He reached under the table and set his hand on her thigh, stopping the movement.
“Ron,” Mom began. “How’s business at your car dealerships?”
“Busy,” Claire’s father said. “We purchased another one out in Asheville. We have five now.”
While Ron continued detailing his successful businesses, Jake moved closer to Emily. “We’ll finish here soon and get back to work, okay?” he whispered.
She nodded, but he could hardly stand the anxiety lining her features.
Jake forked more lasagna, and when his gaze tangled with Claire’s, she pinned him with a glare. He brushed it off and focused on his meal.
When supper was over, Jake and Emily helped Claire, Sherry, and his mom clean up.
After the dishwasher was full, Emily touched Jake’s hand. “I’m going upstairs to get my supplies and then heading back to your house to work on the banner,” she whispered, out of earshot from Mom, Claire, and Sherry, who were busy discussing the weather.
“I’ll be there soon,” he told her before touching a lock of her hair.
She turned toward the group of women. “Thanks for supper.”
“It was good seeing you,” Sherry told her.
Claire’s smile was so phony it reminded Jake of plastic. “See you soon.”
Without a word, Emily dashed toward the doorway before her footfalls echoed on the staircase.
Jake narrowed his eyes at Claire, but she shrugged and returned to wiping down the counter.
After packing up the leftovers and stowing them in the refrigerator, Sherry hugged Mom. “This was so fun. We have to do this more often.”
“Yes, we do,” Mom said, reaching to hug Claire next.
Claire held on tight, and Jake rolled his eyes. “Would you like me to come over to help you tomorrow?”
Tell her no, Mom!Jake wanted to scream the words.
“You’re so sweet, but that’s not necessary.” Mom patted her hand. “I appreciate all your help, honey.”
Go, Mom!
“Okay, but if you need me, please let me know. I’m just a phone call away.” Claire’s eyes filled, and she sniffed. “You and Leon are like my second set of parents.”
Oh please. Claire is such an actress!
Jake turned to his mom and yearned to tell her not to fall for it.
“That’s so sweet, honey,” Mom said.
Yup, she’d fallen for it. He rolled his eyes and folded his arms over his chest.
Mom and Jake walked Claire and her parents to the door and waved as they drove away.
He turned to his mother after they were gone. “Why were they here?”
“Your dad and I have been friends with Claire’s parents since they moved here. We take care of each other in this community, and Sherry and Ron wanted to check on us.”
