The Election Connection by Monica Tillery

Author:Monica Tillery [Tillery, Monica]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Adams Media
Published: 2015-04-02T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Seven

Ford’s parents loved throwing cocktail parties in their home: his father to socialize, network, and bring the kids together, his mother primarily to show off the family’s art collection and excellent taste in expensive wine. When she entertained, she was in her element, buzzing through her home full of guests like the queen bee that she was. His engagement combined with the upcoming election was the perfect excuse for them to invite everyone who was anyone to celebrate, and their home was filled with laughter and animated conversation. Most men would probably introduce their fiancées to their parents during an intimate family dinner, but Ford knew better. After the awkward reception they’d received from Lily’s parents, he was convinced that the more people around, the better. They’d do what they had to do, but the tension would be pleasantly diffused with the atmosphere and alcohol. Mother would certainly make her opinion, whatever it was, known, but at least with such a large audience, he wouldn’t have to hear much about it tonight. The excellent wine and hors d’oeuvres were a bonus.

With a gentle hand on her arm above her elbow, Ford leaned down to whisper. “Nobody but Mother knows that the advisory team wanted me to get engaged. She may hint at it, but she won’t tell my brothers or her friends.”

“What about your dad?”

“I don’t know if she’s told him or not. He won’t let it slip if she did, though. Just remember that as far as everyone else knows, this is a normal engagement.”

“Got it.” When she tilted her face toward him to answer, the light perfume she wore drifted up.

Ford’s youngest brother, Grant, was in town from medical school for the party. He attended University of Texas in Austin, so he could make the quick trip home for the occasional family get-together as necessary. He was pouring a frothy beer from the keg behind the bar when he noticed Ford and waved them over.

“Hey!” Grant rounded the bar and pulled Ford into a bear hug, pounding him on the back a few times for good measure. “Dad said you were engaged, so I decided to finally come to one of these snoozefests and see for myself.”

“I see. You’ll make the drive to drink Dad’s beer and meet a pretty girl, but not to help me get through any of the excruciating dinners they’ve been throwing for me lately.” Ford kidded his brother and punched him on the shoulder.

“Hey, you know I’d love nothing more than to watch you talk about the same policies and political issues over and over again, but I kind of need to concentrate on school.” Grant took a big drink of his beer.

“I guess I’ll let you off the hook. I’d hate to be the reason you’re not smart enough to avoid a malpractice suit someday.”

Ford introduced Lily to his brother and enjoyed the way Grant’s eyes widened in appreciation. Lily was stunning, and the more time he spent with her, the easier it was to forget what a shock it could be to meet her.

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