Deceptions Revealed (Siren Publishing Classic) by Lillith Payne

Author:Lillith Payne
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Romance
Published: 2012-07-05T16:00:00+00:00

* * * *

It was apparent both JoAnna and James were strained. Alan glanced to Helen who tried to settle them down a bit. James gave the condensed version of the condo and work schedule changes. He did give an accurate account of his meetings with JoAnna and Daniel. JoAnna added she was concerned by the lack of Daniel’s reaction to finding out about his father.

“Somehow I think he feels betrayed by me. I’ve asked if he wanted to talk or had questions but I didn’t want to push. He seems disinterested in the situation except for seeing James.”

“He’s probably just processing at his own rate. I’m sure he’ll startle you both with a dozen questions at the most inappropriate time,” Helen said. They all smiled, and the tension faded.

“There was another situation I’d like to clarify. Joey got a visit from an acquaintance of mine in an attempt to make her believe we were getting married.” He turned to look directly at Joey. “I never sent her, and my schedule for June is clear.”

Joey inclined her head, but didn’t elaborate.

“I’ve spoken with my secretary,” James continued, “She’s had no calls from Pilar.”

“So she went directly to Ben, or was called by him.”

“Yes, it’s what I believe. I’m also looking into the private investigator he’s using. I don’t see how else he’d know about the condo. The coffee, I figure, was an opening line. You’re a coffee shop. I’d drink something while I was there.”

“I don’t like having my life monitored.”

“Neither do I. I’m working on it, Joey. Give me some time. Ben was distinctly distant this week. I didn’t push, was just thankful for the reprieve. Now I see he was just working in a different direction.”

“Fine, at least you’re beginning to see how the Montgomery system works.” She didn’t care that her tone was sarcastic.

James gave Joey a strange glare, and she laughed. “Helen, James is supposed to meet Daniel at school this afternoon. He’s going to introduce himself to the principle and Danny’s teacher. I’m sure some of his friends will notice, not to mention the staff. I suppose we just have to ride it out from here.”

She was grasping for magical words that would dissolve the situation. There were none, and James knew only time and patience would see them through this.

“Don’t worry about the gossip, JoAnna,” Alan said.

“I feel like I’m being thrown to the wolves,” James said under his breath.

“Basically, you are.” Joey’s comeback startled him. “And as soon as they realize who you are in relation to Danny they’re going to want to know the rest from me. So, if you’re being thrown, I’m already in the pit, waiting to be eaten alive. Want to switch?”

“Hell no,” he said, lightening the mood.

“Did you plan to bring him to the shop after school or go somewhere else?” JoAnna asked.

“I hoped we all might have supper tonight. I could bring a pizza, or we could take Danny to the arcade for burgers.”

“Let’s see how you fair this afternoon.

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