Protecting Her(79)

“I just wanted to apologize for my earlier behavior,” she says. “It was my youth causing me to act out of character. But I’m older now and realize that I behaved like a foolish child around you. I hope you forgive me.”

“Yes. It’s all forgotten.” I didn’t expect her to apologize. Maybe she’s finally maturing.

“I spoke with your wife earlier,” Katherine says. “She has on a lovely dress tonight.”

Her compliment doesn’t sound sincere, although I think she thought it did. She’s trying her best to put on a fake nice act, but I see right through it. I continue to search the room for Rachel.

“I asked her if you’ll be having more children.”

I look back at Katherine. From her sly grin, I can tell she’s testing me. Waiting to see my reaction. I’m sure Rachel told her nothing, so now she’s trying to get an answer from me.

“You shouldn’t ask such personal questions,” I say. “Your etiquette classes should’ve taught you that.”

“Your son is such a darling little boy. I’m sure after having him, you’re wanting to have another.” She smirks. “Unless Rachel is unable to.”

How the hell did she know that about Rachel? Or again, is Katherine only saying it to see my reaction?

“Gossiping about people is not an attractive quality in a woman,” I tell her. “If you’re looking to find a boyfriend, I would suggest you stop talking about others and focus on yourself.”

“I don’t concern myself with finding a boyfriend. My father is in charge of that. He’s the one choosing my husband.”

“And you’re okay with that?”

“Why wouldn’t I be? Father knows what I like in a man.”

“Does he have someone in mind?”

“Yes.” She glances around the room. “In fact, he’s here tonight.”

“Who is it?”

“I’m not allowed to say.”

“When are you being set up with this man? Has your father told you?”

“He said it may not be for a while. But I’m not in any hurry.”

“Why would he wait? If he’s picked someone, you should go ahead and marry him.”

“It’s complicated,” she says, twirling her hair around her finger.

“Why don’t you go talk to this future husband of yours? I need to find my wife. Enjoy your evening, Katherine.”

I walk away and see Rachel coming toward me. She’s wearing a deep purple dress tonight. The color looks good against her skin and her dark hair. She has on the diamond earrings and matching necklace I gave her when we got married. I’ve bought her several other pieces of jewelry since then, but these items are her favorite because they’re the first ones I ever bought her.

“There you are.” She smiles as she approaches me. I see that smile every day, and yet every time I see it, it still does something to me. Brings me happiness. Joy. Contentment.

I draw her into me and talk in her ear. “You look stunning this evening.”

“Thank you.” She pulls back, her smile even wider.

There isn’t a single woman in here who even comes close to being as gorgeous as Rachel. It’s not just her outside appearance. It’s the positive energy she gives off. I notice it even more when I’m around these people. They all seem so unhappy with their lives. So desperate to tear people down. Just being around them is stressful. But then Rachel appears and I relax.

“Where have you been?” she asks.

“I was talking to Jack and then I ran into Royce. He’s moving the family to Virginia.”

“Just like Jack. Why is everyone moving to Virginia?”

“Royce wants to get more involved in politics. Working on campaigns the past few years has made him want to run for office.”

“For Congress?”

“Maybe. I’m not sure. I didn’t ask.” I see my parents behind her. “My parents are coming over to talk to us.”

She turns around and I put my arm around her.

Rachel greets them. “Hello, Eleanor. Hello, Holton.”

My mother says hello. My father says nothing.

“That’s a nice suit, Holton,” Rachel says. “Is it new?”

He stares at her, not answering. I’m sure he thought she’d yell at him for taking Garret the other day. But instead, she’s nice to him, and now he’s confused, unsure how to respond.