Page 67 of Finding Michael

“True.” Michael grinned.

Tristan palmed Michael’s ass and nudged him into the gallery. He’d forgotten just how opulent the place was and how much money had been spent to rent the space. Marble floors, rich wood around each painting and along the staircase and everyone in evening gowns and tuxedoes…plus a string quartet… Good heavens, his aunt must’ve spent the family riches just to throw the party.

Before Tristan could warn Michael about his family, his aunt strode over to them. Salina waved. “Shit,” Tristan groaned. “Wait for it.”

“Tristan Milo…what a surprise.” Salina threw her arms around Tristan. “Let me get a look at you.” She swept her gaze over him. “You need to eat more. Too thin and people will talk.”

“Thanks.” He should’ve known her compliment would be backhanded. “It’s been tough since Uncle Al passed.”

“Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t know he was sick.” Her smile returned. “You’re here now with your family. We’ll take care of you.”

“Well, it’s funny you say that. I’ve been doing a good job of caring for myself.” He draped his arm around Michael’s waist. “And speaking of family, I’ve got mine right here. I want you to meet my partner, Michael.”

“Him?” Salina’s eyes widened. “Are you…?”

“Yes, this is Michael Kane—like the actor, but not. He’s my partner and we’re very happy together.” Telling anyone who would listen that he and Michael were a couple never ceased to please him.

“Hello, ma’am.” Michael extended his hand, but Salina didn’t move. “Okay. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

She glared at Michael. The lines deepened around her eyes and her makeup crinkled.

“Salina,” Tristan growled. “Remember you’re in public.”

Her glare increased. “Are you kidding?” She yanked Tristan away from Michael and out of earshot. “What are you doing?”

He frowned. He’d expected her to be resistant, but not this mean. He hadn’t done anything wrong by introducing Michael. “I’m sorry?”

“You should be. This isn’t your party. You’re taking the spotlight from your cousin,” Salina snapped.

“We walked in, said hi to you and were on our way to speak to Jean. No one else approached us.” Tristan balled his hand to hide his anger. “What’s wrong with Michael?” He wanted the real reason for her negativity.

Her mouth opened but no sound came out.

“Salina.” He refused to back down. “What’s the deal?”

“Don’t refer to me by my name.” She stared at him. “I’m Mrs. Delaney.”

He rolled his eyes. “Answer me. What’s wrong with Michael?”

She smoothed her skirt and shifted her gaze around the room. “Where did you meet him?”

“Sullavan.”

“Is that a club?”

“It’s where my uncle lived. Michael’s a librarian.” He gritted his teeth. She had to be making this deliberately difficult. “He’s an intelligent and mannered guy.”

“Are you kidding?” she asked a second time. Her jaw slackened and her brows crinkled. “He’s not even from a good family.”

“How do you know?” Why would she think he’d pull her leg?

“First, his haircut is horrible. Second, he’s wearing a tuxedo off the rack and it fits horribly,” she said, clicking her tongue. “He’s classless.”

“That’s my other tuxedo and it’s worth more than some cars.” He folded his arms. “Just stop. You want to hate him. You do. Fine. Don’t take it out on him just because you’re being snooty.”

“He couldn’t afford a proper tuxedo. That’s awful.” Salina notched her chin in the air. “Just go.”

“You want me to leave without saying hello to Babsy?” He tamped down his anger. He should’ve expected this level of displeasure from his aunt. “That would be terrible.” He left Salina where she stood and returned to Michael. “Sorry. She wanted to read me my rights.” He held Michael’s hand. “Let’s visit my cousin.” He navigated his way through the crowd.

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