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“She told us she lost her grandparents, too.”
“Interesting. She doesn’t usually talk about it. She must feel really comfortable with your family.”
“She does seem a little timid.”
“Yes, we had a really rough few years after that. But Emily changed. She’d always been a good kid. But after the accident, she was—I don’t know—driven. Driven to be perfect. She studied. She obeyed. She danced ballet. She made good grades. She excelled. But she never played or relaxed.”
“She didn’t do anything for fun?”
“Well, I think her only escape was reading. Even ballet was something to be conquered with discipline. But she loved reading. That and painting. But she always painted for herself, not for competition or to show anyone.” Anne pursed her lips. “That’s why I was really surprised she agreed to go to an art class with Grace.”
Connie chuckled. “Grace is a force to be reckoned with. She could probably talk an ostrich into flying. Everyone seems to do exactly what she wants.”
“Well in that case, I’m glad they met. Emily’s the type who’d work and read and never get out and do anything. I think this class could be really good for her.”
Her cell phone rang, and Connie left the room to give her privacy.
“Hi, Sweetie. I’m feeling better. I bet I’ve gained a pound.”
“Really? What have you eaten? I mean, what stayed eaten?”
“A piece of toast.”
“Well if you gained a pound from that, it must have been some really heavy bread.”
“Okay, maybe I haven’t gained a pound yet, but I feel like I’ll be able to.”
“I’m glad you’re b
etter.” His voice became serious. “I need to talk to you about something. Okay?”
Her heart began to beat rapidly. She could tell from his tone something was wrong. “What is it? Is Emily okay? Did something happen? Is it work?”
“Calm down—Emily’s fine. There’s no emergency. But there’s been a development, a kink in our plans to hide the pregnancy. I think we may have to go public sooner than we thought. I don’t think we can wait until you’re showing.”
“Why? Did someone slip and say something?”
“No… I’m so sorry, Anne. You know you’re more important to me than anything. Right? I’d give up all my money, Gherring Inc., everything for you. In a heartbeat.”
“What are you saying?”
“I’m so angry I couldn’t protect you—that my money and my position put you in the public eye. And I’m so frustrated I don’t have the power to shield you.”
“Shield me from what?”
“From people. From the press.” He groaned. “Someone took a picture of us, and it’s obvious you aren’t well in the photo. And the story is speculative and nasty.”
“It’s... It’s in the paper?” She couldn’t help the tears that came to her eyes.
“Yes, only a tabloid. But... But someone called me about it, asking questions. A television reporter.”
She tried to respond, but she couldn’t think of anything to say. She let the tears roll down her face.
“Anne? Are you there?”
“Y-yes. I’m h-here.”
“Sweetheart, I’m so sorry. If you want, we’ll fly to South America and hide out until the baby comes.”
