Consequences(130)

Claire reached for his hand under the table and squeezed. He squeezed back and held her hand. She didn’t know how John would respond, but she was exceedingly pleased with her fiancé. Tony added, “And while I have your attention, I want to give Claire her dream wedding. Please allow me to take care of any wedding apparel and accessories.”

At first, Emily and John said nothing. Claire knew it was killing John. He was a successful attorney, but they had education loans they were still paying. They had a mortgage, car loans, probably credit cards. Tony had more money than he could spend in a lifetime. She prayed they would accept.

Finally, John spoke, “Anthony, thank you very much. It’s difficult for me to accept your generosity.”

Tony had one more ploy. “John, haven’t I heard stories about Claire living with the two of you for a year after college?”

John said, “Yes.”

“Perhaps you could justify this as an overdue rent payment?” Tony smiled. Claire wanted to cry; instead, she beamed at John and Emily. They had to see how wonderful Tony could be.

John and Emily exchanged glances. Finally, it was Emily who accepted. “Thank you. You have our numbers. Please let us know the details.” The conversation was done. As they all stood to leave, Claire thought about the bill; apparently, it was taken care of without anyone realizing—one less confrontation.

Since Tony had contacted Eric, he had the car waiting outside. Claire hoped the polite attitude of the dinner would continue into the car. The women got in first, followed by John, who sat by Emily, and Tony, who sat by Claire. As soon as Eric pulled away from the curb John began speaking. His voice was strong and direct, as if he were addressing a jury or judge, “Anthony, I apologize for ambushing Claire in the hallway, and Claire, I apologize for making you uncomfortable”—Emily completely unaware, looked at John with horror in her eyes. Claire exhaled and sat back, thinking only, oh God, he is going to pursue this. She deferred to Tony—“But I’ve known Claire since she was a small girl. I’ve done my best to look out for Emily and Claire, especially since the death of their parents. I love her like a sister”—he smiled at Claire, then looked back to Tony with all seriousness—“I’m an attorney, and I believe Claire deserves rightful representation regarding the legal ramifications of your marriage.”

Claire remained silent. Tony spoke, “John, I definitely appreciate the fact that Claire has someone else who cares about her well-being. I must emphasize—she will be my wife and I will look out for her. I can assure you, we have an entire team of attorneys who will represent her in any necessary legal circumstance.”

John continued undeterred, “With all due respect, your legal team will look out for your best interests—as they should. Claire is obviously in love with you and trusts your decisions.”

“Are you implying you do not trust my decisions?”


“No, I’m not implying. I’m saying as Claire’s brother-in-law and attorney I should review the prenuptial agreement prior to her signature.”

Claire didn’t feel good about this discussion—maybe she could help. “Thank you, John, for your concern. I do trust Tony—” She immediately knew she shouldn’t have spoken.

Tony continued, “Your concern is admirable, and your persistence is commendable. As Claire’s attorney—not her brother-in-law—I’ll inform you that we do not plan on having a prenuptial agreement. I want Claire to have half of everything. I don’t plan on divorcing her, leaving her, or her leaving me. I believe she should be my partner in every way with everything. As of December 18 she will have half of everything I possess.”