Wow. That was…unexpected. I know most people are set in their ways when they’ve owned a business for a while. It’s nice to see someone loosen the reins as they prepare to hand over their company.
Though, I have a feeling he won’t completely retire. This family is too close knit and nosy for that to happen.
“Thanks for the vote of confidence, Dad.” Pierce is beaming at his father’s response. “We need everyone on board so we can hit the ground running.”
I don’t miss the pointed look he gives Paula. But she’s not paying attention to anything he’s saying.
She’s whispering with her sister, and based on the snickers, I have a feeling I know what it’s about. This is humiliating. Next time Paula says she can be quiet, I’m going to call her a liar.
Abigail slides a plate of pancakes on the table at the same time Parker delivers bacon. She glances over at the plate and shakes her head. “There was more bacon than that.”
Parker grins knowing damn well he’s just been caught. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
I’ve decided his charm is what keeps him out of trouble. I saw it in action when he was flirting with the bartender last night.
“How is everyone getting to the winery?” Paula asks now that she’s done talking with Piper.
“We’ll have to take two cars.” Paul lifts a pancake off the plate and places it on the one in front of him. “Wecan figure out where everyone is going after breakfast. And after I drag your brothers out of bed.”
Now it’s his turn to shake his head at his children’s shenanigans. He doesn’t seem upset, though. His eldest son, however, glares at the hallway. He really needs to loosen up. I know they are doing some work on this trip, but it’s also a vacation. People are allowed to go out and have fun.
“I’m riding with Paula.” Both Piper and Parker announce at the same time.
“Well, that takes care of that.” Paul laughs. “It looks like the last three will be close and personal in the truck’s backseat.”
I almost offer to take one of them, but it would be the same thing in Paula’s car. The only different is, her backseat is smaller.
“Let’s eat so we can get on the road.” Pierce mumbles. “The other two will have to eat on the road.”
Peter and Phillip are in for an earful when they get woken up. I’m glad I won’t be in the vicinity. With any luck, we’ll be on the road by then.
“I’m so glad we’re done with that.” Paula sighs as she slides into the passenger seat. I have to agree with her. The whole thing was boring. But, I’m not their demographic so my presence wasn’t needed. The only reason I’m here is Paula.
“Speak for yourself.” Piper moves into the backseat. “I could have looked at their space all day. It’s definitely giving me ideas for Starlit Fields.”
“We should probably talk about the outside seating, too.” Parker buckles his seatbelt.
I glance over at Paula as I turn on the car and put it in reverse. She looks like she wants to ask questions, but she keeps her mouth shut. It’s natural she’s curious, it’s her family’s business, but she made the rule about no winery talk with her younger siblings. It’s a rule they all live by, and now that we’re back on the road, the subject is changed.
I lay my hand on top of Paula’s. She looks over at me. “Are you okay?” I mouth.
Her response is a nod. She’ll say what she really thinks eventually, but she knows this car isn’t a completely safe space, despite having Parker and Piper’s support.
“What game are we playing tonight?” Parker asks.
I’m not sure who he’s directing the question to. “What do you mean?”
“You know, family game night,” Piper says as if that further explains it. “You know when most normal families play board, or card, games while laughing and smiling.”
“Your family isn’t normal?”
This time Paula busts out in laugher, leaning over until she can catch her breath. “I know you aren’t serious with that question.”
“Hey, I take offense.” I can see Parker sit up straight in the rearview mirror. “I’m perfectly normal.”
This time I join in the laughter. It feels good to be this relaxed in the car. Paula’s rule is a smart one.
“You’re probably the most not normal person in our family. Well, except maybe for Paula.” Piper slaps her hands over mouth as soon as the words leave her mouth. “Shit. I’m sorry, Paula, I didn’t mean it like that.”
