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I don’t think I’ve ever heard Dondi curse, but he makes it sound elegant like my wife. He wrings his hands but continues the tale.
“I told him he wasn’t wanted here. No one on the Island likes nor trusts him. I asked him to leave and relinquish his Founder’s position to you. We much rather have you at the table. Honesty is at least part of your vocabulary.”
It’s strangely honoring to know they prefer me, a transplant legacy, at the Founder’s table. This information also illuminates how much faith Dondi really has in me, and at this moment, he’s the best father-in-law in the world.
“And the others? They were okay with me stepping in as the head of the Hales?”
“They agreed, which pissed off your dad. As you know a foundering member cannot be kicked off the table unless they’ve done something extreme and inexcusable. It can only be vacated by death or voluntarily stepping down. He said if I won the hand, he’d leave as long as I’d approve a Hale and LeClaire union, like the Hanlons and Bishops’, if he wins.”
He points his finger at me, the anger he was hiding the last time he visits flashes in his light brown eyes.
“Not once did that asshole mention he was the Hale.” He holds up his hands. “I know. I know. Business 101 preaches knowing all the details of the deal. I was happy with their bet because I was putting faith in you no matter the outcome. While I’m happy you two are in love, I still need to express my sincere apology for turning your lives upside down.”
I nod, appreciating the gesture although I don’t need it. “Did Karessa forgive you?”
Dondi’s face breaks into another teeth-baring smile. “Yes. We had a wonderful lunch.”
“Then, that’s all that matters,” I tell him honestly.
Dondi stares at me for a beat with, dare I say, pride shining in his eyes, Thank you.”
“For what.” His gratitude is confusing.
“For loving my daughter the way I knew you could.”
I feel strangely choked up. I don’t know what’s with the emotions and I don’t like it. Rising, I reach out for a parting handshake. He accepts it with a smile and claps my shoulder before disappearing. I’m glued into place, staring at the door he’d just used, trying to figure out the reason for my inner turmoil. I laugh to myself when I find it. That was the closest I’ve ever gotten to fatherly pride.
Chapter 35
Karessa
Lunch with my dad has me in such a pleasant mood, I damn near float into the office. It feels good to be in love and be on great terms with everyone. Esme is waiting for me when I arrive. We didn’t see the point of getting up early when we had nothing major to plan at the moment. Our services will be in high demand soon once the busy season arrives. We’re just enjoying coasting right now.
I find Esme at the front counter toying with a new smart watch. Electronics are not her area of expertise. I focus on her watch and notice more items from her “list.”
“A gift from Markos?” I toss it out to test the waters.
“Just because we decided to be the closest thing to friends Markos can manage, doesn’t mean he’s willing to buy me stuff.”
“Who bought it then? I know this is on your list along with that Prada clutch.” I point at the new purse on the seat next to her.
“What list?” Esme moves around the corner to look at a ribbon she has never cared about. I know this is an evasion tactic because she’s terrible at lying to me.
“Your things-I-don’t-want-to-spend-my-money-buying list!”
I have an idea who her sponsor is, but I need proof. I grab her other wrist that’s sporting a new diamond and rose gold bracelet that has little fairy charms.
“I got rid of that list,” she lies as she yanks her arm away from me.
“Is that so? Sprite?” Esme flinches at the nickname Oran gave her.
“Yes?”
I’ve got her!
“You little informant! I knew it!”
Esme shrugs since she’s caught. “You’re all happy in love, so he used the information wisely. Plus, he’s an excellent side hustle.”
