Page 90 of Love's Cure

Senator Chamberlain’s lips thinned. He shook his head like a stubborn child. “It’s ruining everything. Now, there’s talk of a divorce just when I’m trying to present myself as a family man.”

Emmett held up his hand to stop him. “That’s an issue between the two of you. I’m not going to get involved with that or any ‘me too’ movement. Don’t ask me to take sides. If I had to, you wouldn’t like it.”

Emmett’s father glared at him. “You’ve always been ungrateful for all I’ve given you. When I met your mother, she was a struggling single woman with a son. Look at the life I’ve given her.”

Unable to stand aside any longer, Crystal walked up beside Emmett, wanting him to know he had her support.

He smiled at her and drew her closer.

His father pointed a finger at her. “It’s your fault. Believe me, I know all about your background. I’ve had it checked out. What are you doing with my son? Are you after his money?”

“Dad, stop it!” Emmett said, standing protectively in front of her.

Crystal moved to his side. “I have nothing to be ashamed of and no need for anyone else’s money. I love your son, and he loves me.”

Emmett beamed at her and faced his father. “It’s true. Mom knows about it and is happy for us.”

Emmett’s father shook his head back and forth. “Yeah? Well, thanks for destroying my chances of becoming president. In these times, voters want a candidate with a close family. What can I say about mine?”

“That’s up to you,” said Emmett. “It’s not my position to tell you what to do. Are you going to the rehab hospital for some sessions with Mom?”

His father let out a long sigh. “I suppose I have to now that word is out. Who knows, maybe it’ll help.” He studied the two of them standing together, turned, and headed back to his car.

Crystal watched him go, wondering what good might come out of such a twisted background. She turned to Emmett. “I’m sorry.”

“Me, too. The evening is ruined.” His shoulders slumped. “I really don’t like him very much. He was different when he married my mother, but ambition has made him an ass. That’s one reason I had to make the break.”

“Let’s try to have a nice supper. We can picnic on the dock if you’d like.”

He shook his head. “Let’s eat in the kitchen. There are two makeshift stools there where the workmen eat.”

They went into the kitchen, and Emmett poured them each a glass of pinot noir. “Here’s to a better evening another time. ’Sorry about my dad.”

Crystal hid her disappointment. “We’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—we can’t let anyone ruin what we share.”

His turquoise gaze remained on her. He nodded and pulled her close.

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