Page 145 of Sins of the Father

“What are you doing?”

“Just trying to see if I can find any food in there.”

“Ha! Funny!”

“What does the winner get?” I ask.

She softly laughs. “If I win, you’re my slave for the day. If you win, I’m yours.”

“As in, sex slave?”

“Whatever you want.”

“Deal.”

I kiss her head, and the car stops. We get out and go into the penthouse.

“Claire! Ethan!” Harper shouts, and a blonde woman about half the size of the dark-haired man standing next to her spins. He’s about my height and turns, too. A smile grows on both their faces.

Ethan Knight, the real estate mogul?

Claire Whitfield, the famous criminal attorney?

I don’t know why I never put two and two together when Harper said, Ethan and Claire. I should have. Their profiles have been all over the business magazines and internet sites for the last year or so. And they were both being framed and created a trap to prove their innocence. I suddenly feel more confident about Claire helping my mom.

Harper introduces all of us after she hugs them, and I shake Ethan’s hand.

“Ummm, you’ve been holding out on me,” Claire accuses Harper.

“About what?”

“You didn’t mention your man is aMarquis’sTop Ten Under Forty Professional!”

Heat burns my face.

Harper proudly beams and puts her arm around my waist. “He is. The best one on the list, too.”

I hold back my groan, and we step into the empty elevator.

Ethan chuckles. “I see you’re humble, but that’s a huge accomplishment. You should be proud.”

“Thanks.” I try to change the subject. “And I appreciate you coming to help my mom.”

“Of course. Anything for Harper,” Claire says.

The doors open, and we go through the hallway and into the main room. My mom and Jamison sit on the couch. Quinn and Hope are playing on the floor.

As soon as my mom turns, my heart cracks again. She’s been crying. Her eyes are swollen and red. The moment she rises, I hug her.

After introductions are made, and Claire and Harper make a fuss over the baby, Claire pulls a notepad and pen out of her bag. “Beth, why don’t we get this part of the day over with? You might feel better knowing your options.”

“Sure. Thank you again for talking with me.”

“Of course.” Claire’s tone is soothing and confident, and I like and trust her. “I think it’s best if Beth and I talk alone, no offense.”

“I can’t stay?” I blurt out.

Claire smiles. “It’s best if you don’t. Are you okay with that, Beth?”

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