“You came,” I said.
Siobhan looked at the framed photo of Grayson’s great-grandfather hanging on the wall in the entry.
“Not sure why I did,” she said dryly as I ushered her in.
“We have food and alcohol.”
“Good. I’m going to need a drink.” The two children and her husband, Joe, followed me as I led them gamely into the grand salon.
Grayson’s mom entered the living room warily.
There was a collective intake of breath from his brothers.
“Hello, boys,” Siobhan finally said. “You all have grown up.” She studied Grayson’s brothers as they looked at her, stunned.
“This is Niles and Franny,” she said, pointing to the kids beside her. “Grayson’s half-siblings.”
“A puppy!” the little boy holding her hand shrieked.
Siobhan hefted the plant in the bag she carried.
“I see I’ve been outshined in the gift department.”
“Grayson is a very caring plant dad,” I assured her, “and this is going to be a wonderful addition to the family.”
Grayson was wary and guarded, his corporate mask on.
My mom was having none of it.
“Have a pig in a blanket.” She shoved a platter in front of Siobhan.
“Mom.”
“Lexi, she’s a guest.”
“There’s catering,” I assured Siobhan, who was too polite to make a face at my parents, who were decked out in their Florida best for the housewarming party.
“I just have to give you a hug,” my mother insisted, wrapping her arms around Grayson’s mom. She was wearing flip-flops and came barely to chest height on Siobhan, who was dressed impeccably in heels and a silk cocktail dress.
“I’m Lexi’s mom.” She showed Siobhan one of the many buttons she wore on her vest that proclaimed, LEXI’S FAN CLUB! “And your son is just wonderful.”
“Can’t really take any credit for that.” Siobhan glanced at Grayson.
His expression didn’t change.
“That woman needs a drink,” my father said jovially, pressing a cocktail in her hand. Barely taller than I was, he was the least intimidating man on the planet.
My parents ushered Siobhan away, leaving Grayson with his siblings and Siobhan’s husband.
Grayson didn’t say a word.
“Thanks for investing in my company,” Siobhan’s husband said finally.
“Don’t mention it,” my boyfriend replied.
Niles tugged at Grayson’s pant leg.
“Can I please play with your puppy?”
