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As she studied Joseph Brando, the first word that popped into Brianna’s mind was powerhouse. Even in the casual attire of a golf shirt and khakis, Lina’s dad emanated a take-charge energy that screamed leader. He was tall, more charismatic than handsome, with sharp features, thick black hair and brows, and probing eyes that seemed to take in the entire room with one glance. He had the solid build of someone who had daily workout sessions—probably at five a.m. so as not to cut into the business day.
No surprise that this guy was running for US Congress, and that he’d probably win. He was a unique combination of dynamic and charming. A born politician.
“Please, let’s relax and chat a bit,” he said now, waiting for all the ladies to get comfortable before lowering himself into the club chair. He raised one dark brow in his wife’s direction. “You did say that dinner wouldn’t be for a while, right? I don’t want to be the cause of it burning.”
Donna smiled. “No worries, darling. We’ve got a solid twenty minutes before I have to serve. By all means, let’s talk. I feel as if we already know Brianna. But it will be lovely to get to know her in person, rather than via our talkative daughter.” She winked at Lina, who grinned back.
“There’s not much to tell.” Brianna found herself wondering just how much Lina had shared with them about the nightmare involving Dr. Hanover. Probably not much, since the two of them totally respected each other’s privacy. Still, she was very much an open book, she was close with her family, and she was protective of Brianna. No doubt she’d implied that Brianna was going through something upsetting enough to warrant a warm family dinner.
“Lina says your parents live locally,” Donna said.
Brianna’s parents. A safe topic if ever there was one.
She nodded. “They live on the Upper West Side. My mom’s a pediatrician and my dad’s an investment banker. They both work incredibly long hours, so it’s a real juggling act for us to get together. But we’re a close family, so we manage.” A surge of guilt shot through her. The truth was that she’d been the obstacle of late. She’d have to rectify that, and soon. She missed them, and they needed to know what was going on.
“You’re an only child, like Lina?”
“Yes.” Brianna smiled. “I don’t think their schedules would allow time for another child. But that doesn’t matter. Selfishly, I’ve always enjoyed being the only one. This way, I never had to battle for attention.”
“Amen to that,” Lina said. “I’m a brat. I want all my parents’ time and energy focused on me, whenever it isn’t taken up by political campaigns and agendas for a better future.”
Joseph gave her an indulgent grin.
“Dad, I filled Brianna in about your congressional campaign,” Lina supplied.
Her father’s smiled broadened, and he leaned forward in his seat, rolling his wine goblet between his palms. “I’m glad. Actually, I have some good news on that front.”
“I knew it!” Lina exclaimed. “That phone call you were on. You were talkin
g to Uncle Neil, weren’t you? You got the endorsement you were counting on!” A quick pivot toward Brianna. “Neil Donato is my dad’s campaign manager. He’s also a partner at Dad’s law firm. I’ve known him my whole life. He’s awesome.” She gazed back at her father. “Am I right about your good news?”
“You are indeed. Neil told me that Hailey Sorensen is giving me her official endorsement. We’ll be holding a televised press conference tomorrow for her to announce her endorsement to the public and to the media.”
He filled in the details for Brianna. “Hailey and I go way back. She served as a House representative for three consecutive terms. Like me, she’s always been a strong advocate for technology and improving the digital infrastructure of our country. So our paths have crossed numerous times. Now, she’s a technology lobbyist based in DC. She’s strongly regarded, both by the government and by big businesses. An endorsement from her will carry a lot of weight.”
He barely heard Brianna’s congratulations over the shrieks of excitement that came from Lina and her mother as they leapt up and ran to him. He rose quickly to his feet.
“Oh, sweetheart, that’s wonderful.” Donna hugged him, closely followed by Lina, who launched herself at her father so hard that Brianna was afraid his glass would shatter.
“Daddy, you’re going to Washington!” Lina shrieked. “I knew it!”
Joseph hugged his wife and daughter back, giving Lina an indulgent smile. “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, honey. There are still almost five months till the election and a lot of ground to cover.”
“Neil must have been elated,” Donna said.
“He sounded psyched. This is a huge boost for our campaign.” Abruptly, he cleared his throat, giving Brianna an apologetic look. “And here I promised you I was husband and dad in my home. I’m sorry about the interruption and the timing. From now on, I’m all yours.”
“Please don’t apologize,” Brianna said. “Your news is wonderful. I’m honored that I was here to share in the joy.” She glanced at Lina, smiling fondly as she watched her friend calm down enough to sit.
Donna had already taken her seat, crossing her legs and turning her full attention on Brianna. “Let’s talk about you. Tell us about your plans once you’ve completed your MBA.”
The next fifteen minutes were filled with easy, light conversation. So was dinner, although Brianna did wonder if an additional eight guests were expected, given the amount of food.
Donna Brando made a killer lasagna, one that filled half the length of the dining room table. Between that, the caprese salad, and the to-die-for garlic bread, Brianna thought she might burst—although she still found room for a chocolate-covered cannoli, a tiny sliver of the black forest cake she’d brought, and a cappuccino.
Finally, she sat back in her seat, taking a deep breath and exhaling slowly. “I don’t remember the last time I was this full,” she admitted. “But everything was so delicious that I couldn’t seem to turn away seconds and, in some cases, thirds. You’re an amazing cook, Donna. I can’t thank you enough for having me over tonight.”
“It was our pleasure,” Lina’s mom replied, visibly pleased that Brianna had enjoyed herself. “I’ll pack you a doggie bag to take home with you.”
