For Love or Charity (McCallister's Paradise Book 3) by Rhondeau Chantel

Author:Rhondeau, Chantel [Rhondeau, Chantel]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2015-04-07T07:00:00+00:00

Chapter 17

Sydney looped her arm through Matt’s, following Brad back into the living room. One down, one to go. Well, perhaps two. Sydney wasn’t exactly sure what her mom had confided in her dad. Mom wouldn’t be happy to see Matt here in her house, but hopefully everyone else would be welcoming.

It was wonderful and scary having him here. She hadn’t expected it, but she was so grateful at the same time. He’d said he knew there was no money. They’d tried everything and all he wanted was her.

It was a little creepy that something about her made him think of his mother, but Sydney decided she couldn’t worry about that right now. It was Thanksgiving. She’d be thankful to have Matt, whatever happened.

“Hey, everyone,” she called out, her voice sounding a bit too high and cheerful. “My friend from New York flew all the way down here to see me for the holiday!”

All eyes in the room swiveled to face them. Her brothers, Larissa, and Sierra all wore wide, welcoming smiles. Beneath her arm, the tense muscles in Matt’s arm relaxed slightly.

Over in the corner where they played chess, her parents both frowned, eyes narrowed in concern.

Great. They both knew about Matt. Sometimes, she wished her parents weren’t so close. It would be good if they kept secrets sometimes.

She took in a deep breath, keeping her smile plastered to her face despite their apparent unhappiness. “This is Matt Coleson. He’s the one I’ve been trying to help with the charity work.”

Quinn stood from his place on the couch, extending his hand. His smile didn’t falter as he shook with Matt. At least Mom hadn’t told everyone.

“I’m Quinn, Sydney’s oldest brother. Good to have you here, Matt. We don’t often meet Sydney’s guy friends.”

Heat extended up Sydney’s cheeks at those words. Did that make her sound like a loser to Matt? Would he think she had a long line of guy friends?

Breathing deeply, she knew she had to calm down. She’d told Matt about Tim. He knew her cheating ex was supposed to come to the island for the wedding earlier this month. Of course he wouldn’t think she was some floozy with dozens of playmates.

“I’m glad to be here,” Matt said. “But I’m afraid I left things in an awkward place with your sister a few days ago, and I’ve pushed myself on your family uninvited.”

Susan and John stood as though they were one person, crossing the room to approach Matt.

To Sydney’s relief, Susan smiled. “Nonsense, Matt. Friends are always welcome at the McCallister home. Have you had Thanksgiving dinner?”

Matt shook his head. “I caught a plane early this morning, Mrs. McCallister. I had a mystery meat sandwich during my second flight, but nothing since then.”

“There are plenty of leftovers.” Susan nodded in the direction of the kitchen. “Why don’t you and Sydney go fix a plate for you to eat? As anxious as everyone is to get to know you, I’m sure you both need a little alone time.

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