By the time it was over, my temples throbbed.
As we all stood, Daphne turned and hugged me.
The move was so unexpected, I stood statuesque for a moment before returning the gesture.
“He was a good husband and father,” she said.
I swallowed. “He’ll be missed.”
Daphne dabbed her eyes. “Every day.”
Grant touched her shoulder. “Shall we go to the dinner?”
“Oh yes.”
Looking up at Fin, I widened my eyes.
He whispered near my ear, “You need to fill me in on that when we’re home.”
“I wish I knew.”
Fin and I both stood abruptly straight as Preston came out of the crowd toward us. “I did not invite him,” I said under my breath.
Although Preston’s lips were set in a straight line, in his tailored suit, he looked like he’d just posed for a magazine cover.
“Preston,” I said.
Fin placed his hand in the small of my back. I could almost hear him growling mine.
“Vee, I had to come.” Preston kept his eyes on me, avoiding Fin. “Reid was a wonderful man. I’m so glad I got the opportunity to know him.”
Fuck.
Are we in a pissing contest?
“That’s very kind of you.” I pursed my lips. “Not to be rude, but this service was by invitation only.”
“I called Grant. He made sure my name was on the list.”
I inhaled. “That’s so sweet of Grant, always full of surprises. Do enjoy the meal.” I looked up at Fin. “Shall we?”
“Clark,” Fin said with a nod.
“Graham.”
The other half of the practice field was filled with round tables and multiple long tables filled with food. We searched for the reserved family seating. The air was filled with the buzz of conversation, soft dining music, and delicious aromas of our meal. Looking around, I saw different members of our team and staff.
Their presence gave me a warm feeling. “Dad would be happy with this,” I said to Fin as we settled into our chairs. I introduced Fin to Leigh, Hayden, Lip, and Chris.
Most people were seated as Fin’s attention was drawn away. “What are they doing here?”
Chapter 35
Vee
I followed Fin’s line of sight. My jaw clenched at the sight of Trooper Daniels and Detective Oldson standing near the wall, looking over the crowd. “The fuck?” I asked softly. “Are they security?”
No. Uncle Darin said the Coopers provided security.
