Ethel preened. “We do have good genes. My family came over on the Mayflower.”
“Fascinating,” Greg said. “We’ll have to meet for drinks so you can tell me all about it.”
“Now I must see where my granddaughters are living, then I’m off to a new art exhibit opening.”
“Unfortunately,” Greg said, “we are about to embark on a move across town to the 101 Park Place high-rise. That’s where Tess is now. She’s working on unpacking without the girls underfoot.”
Ethel’s eyes lit up. “I’ve heard wonderful things about that tower. Did you know it was developed by an all-female firm? Talk about girl power.”
Greg’s smile turned forced. The only reason that tower had been developed was because Belle had won the contract Greg had been gunning for.
“Beck, let me know when you all are settled. Tell Tess I’ll send over a housewarming present,” she said as Greg handed her off to the doorman and told her to enjoy her evening.
As soon as the door closed, my older brother’s charm disappeared. “I am so disappointed in you.”
“Me? I had to think fast!”
“A fake fiancée.” Greg shook his head.
“Fake girlfriend,” I corrected.
“I expected this from Liam, not you,” he said.
“I bet he just did it so he could score a bigger apartment,” Carl complained.
“Oh shit.”
“No swearing,” Greg barked.
“I have to convince Tess to move in with me.” I took out my phone, going to Greg’s study for some privacy and to escape the squabbling of my siblings at the dinner table.
Tess sounded drunk when I called her.
“Yeller?”
“Tess, I have something very important to tell you,” I said urgently.
“You have reached the big love dildo shop. What size are you looking for to please your lady?”
“Tess,” I growled as she and another woman in the background erupted into peals of laughter.
“Take that, telemarketer!” Tess yelled.
“Tess, it’s Beck, your boss.”
“Oh shit!”
I winced as the sound of what seemed like crashing pots and pans blared through the phone. Then Tess was back on.
“Hello? Hello? Can you hear me? Oh no, this phone connection is terrible!”
“Tess, I need you to listen to me.”
“Crackle, crackle, crackle. Eeeee!”
“Tess, I know you’re making those sound effects.”
“Dial your operator for help.”
