Consequences(131)

John sat in silence and stared at Tony. He obviously hadn’t expected that information. Finally, he spoke, “Have you consulted your team of legal counsel?”

“Excuse me? Are you asking as Claire’s attorney?”

“No, I’m asking as your future brother-in-law. I know Claire. I know she’s a wonderful woman who’s in love, but as an attorney, a man of your wealth should not enter a business deal without a contract, and you should not enter a marriage without a prenuptial agreement.”

Tony smiled, amused. Claire knew—amusement did not necessarily imply a good thing. Maybe it was all a figment of her imagination—perhaps she would wake and this would all have been a nightmare. Emily sat in awe, dumbfounded by the verbal debate transpiring before her.

Tony decided the conversation was over. “John, thank you for your advice—thank you for your legal consultation. Your care and concern for Claire is duly noted and welcomed. I look forward to more lively debates with you in the future. May I make one suggestion?”

John said yes; however, his answer was inconsequential. The statement formed as a question was purely rhetorical. Tony would offer his suggestion either way.

“These conversations should and will take place in private.”

John agreed.

They sat in silence for a while. Finally, Emily broke the uneasy stillness. “Claire, it’s been so nice to see you. I’m going to miss you.” She reached out for Claire’s hand and squeezed. “I can’t wait until we’re together again for the wedding”—she turned to Tony—“If we’re still welcome?”

He smiled. Claire didn’t need to see, to know his eyes didn’t. “Of course, we look forward to your visit.”

Once the Eric reached their hotel, he opened the door and Tony got out. Emily and John both hugged Claire on their way out and Emily whispered, “Please call more.”

Claire feigned a smile and nodded. She wasn’t sure she could speak without emotion. Both John and Emily shook Tony’s hand as they went into the hotel.

After Tony got back in the car and Eric shut the door, Tony laid his head back on the seat. Claire knew she should remain quiet; however, she wanted to tell him how pleased she was with all he’d said—she did trust his decisions—and she didn’t care about the money. Nevertheless, one glance toward her fiancé reaffirmed her silence. Tony was obviously not happy.

As the car pulled away, Tony squeezed Claire’s hand and spoke, his tone was neither warm nor playful, “I believe it’s good you took a nap this afternoon.”

Eric drove them to the apartment.





Prolonged endurance tames the bold.



—Lord Byron





Chapter Twenty-Eight


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During the eight months Claire had lived on Tony’s estate, she never saw visitors—business or personal. The house remained busy with staff and employees—people who clean, cook, and fulfill other responsibilities filled the house. The grounds often bustled with gardeners and maintenance workers, but there were never guests. That was why, as they approached the house, winding up the drive, it seemed strange to see multiple cars parked on the brickyard in front of the main steps.

On the plane and again in the car, Claire received the rules speech. It seemed incredibly redundant. She’d heard it hundreds of times—literally. She knew the words by heart—follow my rules—do as you’re told—do not divulge personal information—actions have consequences—appearances are of vital importance—and public failure is not an option. Apparently, being Tony’s fiancée didn’t exempt her from the rules—it made them all that more critical.