Page 40 of The Off-limits Grump Next Door
“He’s been whining like a three-year-old, but… he gets the job done.”
I could see Damon’s frown turn to a grin from the corner of my eyes.
Our father nodded approvingly, leaving his desk to join us.
“Now, have you given more thought to what we discussed last week?”
I knew where this was headed: Marriage. My father didn’t mind who I chose to be with; he just wanted me to settle down. I, on the other hand, was trying to be careful. I didn’t want to end up with some gold digger who just wanted her claws in my wealth… just like my mother.
I wanted someone who would love me for me. And I believed I’d found just that person… but I couldn’t say anything just yet. Things were still… new.
“I’ve been busy, Dad,” I evaded, attempting a neutral tone.
Damon chimed in, a mischievous glint in his eye. “Actually, Dad, I think Antonio’s been distracted by other things... or should I say, someone?”
Our father’s eyebrows rose, interest piqued. “Oh? Do tell.”
Damon leaned forward, a sly grin spreading. “During the board meeting, Antonio was completely smitten. I saw him checking his phone, and his face lit up like a Christmas tree.”
My face warmed, and I shot Damon a warning glance.
Father’s expression turned thoughtful. “A new development, Antonio?”
I shrugged, trying to downplay it. “Just a friend, Dad. Pay Damon no attention.”
Damon snorted. “Save it, bro. I saw the blush.”
Our father chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Well, well. Looks like we might have a potential Mrs. Michaelson on the horizon.”
I shook my head, laughing. “You’re jumping to conclusions, Dad.”
But Damon persisted. “I’m telling you, Dad, Antonio was gone. He didn’t even hear Emily’s presentation.”
I playfully rolled my eyes. “You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?”
Damon grinned. “You have no idea.”
Just as Dad was about to continue, the door opened, and one of the staff walked in with a warm smile and a large tray. “Lunch, sirs,” she announced, setting the tray on the table.
The aroma of freshly baked bread and roasted meats wafted through the room, momentarily distracting us.
Father’s eyes lit up. “Ah, excellent timing. I asked them to bring in some of that new Italian place’s specialties—grilled paninis, bruschetta, and minestrone soup. And, of course, some espresso and iced tea.”
He glanced at Damon and me. “Will this suffice, boys?”
Damon nodded enthusiastically. “Looks sumptuous, Dad.”
I managed a smile, my stomach growling in anticipation. “More than enough, thanks.”
The server began arranging the dishes before us. “Shall I pour the espresso, sir?”
Father nodded. “Please.”
Once she departed, Dad’s attention returned to me. “Now, where were we? Ah yes, Antonio, I want you to settle down. It’s time to consider the family’s future.”
“Yes, Dad. I’ll get married when the right woman comes along. Can we get back to lunch now, please?”
We focused on our lunch, the sound of clinking silverware and occasional murmurs filling the room. Damon engaged Dad in a discussion about an upcoming golf tournament, while I lost myself in thoughts of Kendra. Her smile, her laugh—they kept intruding, even when I tried to push them away.
