Page 49 of King of Deception

Luke helps me into my chair, and I make a show of opening my menu like I’m actually considering. I know the menu backward and forward.

“So what are we discussing until then?” Luke grumps, also opening his menu.

“How are wedding plans coming with you and Kate?” I ask, setting my menu down again.

Luke gives the smallest smile. “Haven’t planned much. I think we’re going to have the ceremony in Colorado.”

Mason nods. “Best place for a wedding. You can really think when surrounded by the scent of pine.”

I hide my smile, remembering Mrs. Wingate’s comment. But also, it’s nice to hear them exchange even a single pleasantry.

“We’re not having it at a resort,” Luke retorts. “We’re thinking her stepfather’s cabin would be best.”

Mason’s lips press together. My guess is Mason knows the place. “And how is Charlotte,” I ask, trying to move things along.

Mason runs a hand through his hair. A tell that he’s nervous. “She’s good.”

My brows lift as I lean forward. “Really?”

“Did you talk with her?” Mason asks, leaning in too. “She says all the throwing up is normal, but I fucking hate it.”

I blink back my surprise. Oh my God…. “Charlotte’s pregnant?”

“She can barely keep food down,” he whispers roughly. “How can I keep her safe when her own body is attacking her?”

Luke’s menu is forgotten too. “Mason. It’s totally normal.”

He shakes his head, and I see deep worry in Mason’s eyes like I’ve never seen before. “The doctor prescribed some medication but…”

I see Luke’s eyes slide closed. “I can ask Kate…”

“Would you please?” Mason sounds pained. “I should have been more careful. I don’t need to have kids. I’d be happy just me and her. I just want her to be safe. I…” He closes his mouth, likely realizing how much he’s given away.

The waiter enters and I order a glass of Chardonnay along with a delicate seafood dish that is true French delicacy.

I look over at Luke and I can see the waiver in his eyes. “I know what happened between the two of you. Leo told me.”

“Fucking Leo,” they say in unison.

“He’s going to be a better dad than me,” Mason tosses in after. “Never thought I’d see the day when he beat me out at something that wasn’t weightlifting.”

One side of my mouth quirks up. “Mason, you’re going to be a great dad. Hell, you’re the closest thing to a father I’ve ever had. I don’t know what I would have done without you.”

“That’s your bar for great. He’s trying to get you to marry a total twat.”

“Hey,” Mason barks. “She said yes before I’d ever even met Preston.”

“But you put all that pressure on her with my shares,” Luke fires back.

“Because you’re quitting just like that.”

“Not like that, you tried to ruin Kate’s career. No. Worse. You tried to make me do it.”

I sigh and hold up my hands. “We need to find a solution that doesn’t involve Preston.”

Both glare at me. “I’m not making up with Mason just because you want me to, Bug.”

I pinch my nose. “We are a family. If I’m about to have nieces and nephews, we’re all having Christmas together. I’ve lost too many people, you’ve lost too many people?—”

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