Page 87 of The In-Laws

‘Yes, don’t worry, everyone’s in.’ Melanie had made damn sure everyone was in today for the showdown.

‘Maybe I could meet the others now, before our chat. I’d like to get a feel for the agency and the people who work here.’

‘Of course. Let me see if they’re free.’

Melanie went out to check. Nancy was on the phone in her office. Jamie and Katie were having coffee in the reception area. Katie’s eyes were firmly trained on Melanie. Ross was in the conference room.

Melanie called him out.

‘What?’ he snapped.

‘I have a new potential author who wants to meet everyone.’

‘Oh, are they good? Will they bring in revenue?’

‘Yes, I think you’ll like them,’ Melanie said, as Katie stifled a laugh.

‘What are you doing here?’ Ross had noticed Katie. ‘Mum will go nuts if she sees you in the office.’

‘She came to give me my phone, Ross.’ Jamie’s voice was cold.

Katie smirked at him. ‘Don’t get your knickers in a twist, Ross. I’ll head off in a minute.’

‘Well, just try to refrain from slinging insults about the place while you’re here. We have an author in today and we need to project professionalism.’

Melanie could see that Jamie’s jaw was set in a hard line, but Katie just smiled brightly at her brother-in-law. ‘No problem, Ross.’

‘And stay away from my mother. I don’t want you upsetting her.’

Jamie moved as if to stand up, but Katie put her hand on his arm. ‘Nancy has nothing to worry about fromme, Ross.’

‘Okay,’ Melanie said. ‘I’ll just bring the author out to meet you all.’

Melanie’s heart was pounding as she opened her office door and asked Ruby to step out.

Ruby stood up and waddled to join her.

‘Everyone, this is Ruby Rose,’ Melanie said, ushering her forward.

‘Hello, nice to meet you.’ Jamie put out his hand.

Ross recoiled as if he’d been hit by a bullet. ‘What the … What are you …’ he stammered.

Melanie saw Katie from the corner of her eye. She was standing behind Ross, grinning widely.

‘Hello, there, Ross, surprised to see me?’ Ruby drawled.

‘What the hell?’ Ross managed to gasp. His face had gone white and he was staring at Ruby, unmoving, horrified.

‘What’s going on?’ Jamie said, looking from Melanie to Ross to Ruby.

Melanie shrugged, claiming innocence, enjoying every moment.

‘Long time no see or hear, Ross,’ Ruby said.

‘You two know each other?’ Jamie asked.

‘Very well, actually,’ Ruby said. ‘Do you want to fill your family in, Ross? Or will I?’

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