Page 103 of The Rented Bride

“Mom, Trent isn’t Catholic,” Cassie said.

She looked at him, clearly surprised, but said in a kind voice, “But you do plan a service?”

He nodded. “Doris has been kind enough to oversee the arrangements.”

Maria gave a succinct nod. “Good, I will help—we will all help. But let us begin with lunch. Where is the kitchen?”

“Doris, show Mrs. Adams to the kitchen, and tell Ace that he will be the sous chef while she’s here.” Trent caught the flicker of amusement in Doris’ eyes. She was thinking the same thing he was: Ace was going to have a fit being demoted by a robust Italian woman. He was no match. “And, Meg, please have Henry retrieve their luggage from The Regency and bring it here.”

Maria tsked. “Are you already arguing with your mother-in-law? I said we’re fine at the hotel.”

“If your daughter is anything like her mother, I’m sure we’ll argue again.” He winked at her. “Please, we insist. You can all stay here with us. There’s plenty of room. Isn’t that right, Cassie?”

“I think they’ll be comfortable at The Regency. You’re not used to having so many people around. I think under the circumstances, I should stay at the hotel with them.”

“Stay away from your new husband?” her father said. “That’s ridiculous, Cassie.” He turned to Trent. “We’ll all stay. Thank you.”

“Meg, please send Henry for their luggage,” Trent said.

Meg nodded and left.

Cassie’s eyes narrowed on Trent. “I’m not staying here.”

“What’s this about?” Maria looked from Trent to Cassie. “I know nothing of what is happening in my daughter’s life.” Her gaze narrowed. “Except what I read in the paper and on the internet.”

All eyes turned on Trent, and he knew that they were remembering Lindsey’s announcement about their so-called engagement. Since then his phone had blown up. And it wasn’t just the paparazzi looking for more gossip, but Lindsey had called. He’d had his number changed.

“I owe you all an explanation,” he said. “About the rumors and—”

“Do you want to talk about Lindsey in front of my family?” Cassie asked.

“Are you talking about Lindsay Fremont?” Bobby asked.

Trent nodded. “Yes.”

“So you never dated this woman?” Maria asked.

“I did, but she lied when she announced an engagement.”

Cassie’s mother shook her head. “Some women are very bitter.”

Trent nodded. “If you’re ready, Maria, I’ll show you to the kitchen.” He winged an arm. She placed a hand in the crook and they started away.

“I think I’ll come with you,” Cassie said.

“There’s no need,” Trent said.

“Oh yes there is.” She followed them.

They reached the kitchen and Trent introduced Maria to Ace.

She ran her gaze down his large frame. “You are the chef?”

“Yes ma’am.”

She smiled. “You look as good as that salad. I won’t mind having you in the kitchen.”

Ace blinked, then grinned. “You’re not so bad yourself.”