‘But?’ he prompted.
‘How did you know there was a but?’
‘I’ve been your best friend since we were kids, remember? I know when you’ve got something on your mind.’
‘That obvious, huh?’
‘Maybe not to everyone. But to me, yeah.’
‘Like I said, I hate that I made everyone worry.Butit’s really brought everything into perspective.’
‘What do you mean?’
‘I know what I want. And what I don’t.’
‘Are we talking about the hotel or Mae?’
‘Both.’
‘Good.’ He took a deep breath and exhaled. ‘Because there’s something I need to talk to you about.’
I pulled a face, noticing my parents approaching. ‘It’ll have to wait.’
‘I really wanted to talk privately first.’
His tone was urgent. I looked at him sideways as my parents joined us.
‘Jonah.’ My mother leaned forward and I kissed her on the cheek. Anna and Mae came back, drinks in hand. Mae passed me a glass of champagne and moved quietly to stand by my side. I loved that she felt safe there. Truth be told, I felt safe with her there too. Not physically, but in the knowledge that I had someone beside me who knew me forme.Who would have my back, no matter what.
‘What do you think?’ Dad asked me. He had come a long way in the few weeks since his stroke. He’d lost weight and was walking with the aid of a cane for support, but he was looking more and more like the Gray of old. His spark was back.
‘About what?’
He looked at Myles. ‘You haven’t told him yet?’
‘I was just about to.’
‘Tell me what?’
They exchanged glances, as if unsure as to who should do the talking.
‘Let’s step outside into the foyer,’ Dad suggested. ‘All of you. This concerns the family.’
‘I’ll wait here for you,’ Mae said, giving my arm a gentle squeeze.
‘Nice try,’ I told her. ‘But you’re with me, and that makes you part of this family. You’re coming with.’
‘I don’t think your mother will feel the same way.’
‘Since when have I cared what she thinks?’
She studied me, reaching a decision. ‘OK. I’ll come. To support you.’
I pulled her in for a quick cuddle, kissing her head. ‘Thank you.’
Out in the foyer, we found the rest of the family already gathered around in the waiting area, next to the large fireplace.
‘OK,’ I said, as we joined them. ‘What’s this all about?’
