Page 23 of Shattered Crown
"She's traditional."
"She doesn’t like me."
"Evie."
"She doesn’t, Dad. She spends all her time with Uncle Xavier or with Grandma. Only Auntie Isabelle speaks to me." Evie's voice had gone quiet. "I don’t want to be there. But if I have to, I will."
I hadn’t expected her to be so open about her reluctance to attend the dinner. I’d expected hesitance or subtle whining, but not this. I glanced at Evie. She was indeed frowning. I wanted todo right by her. Maybe this was the small step that would take our relationship to where it needed to be.
"I'll tell her you have a prior commitment," I said.
Evie's eyes widened. "Really?"
"The foundation is hosting an auction soon, isn't it? I'm sure they need volunteers to prepare."
"They do, but…" She stopped. Stared at me. "You're lying to Gigi. For me."
"I'm prioritizing your wellbeing."
"By lying to Grandmother."
I suppressed a grin. "The two aren't mutually exclusive."
"Dad. That's... that's actually kind of cool."
"Don't get used to it. I don’t want you picking that up from me."
"Too late. You're secretly a rebel. I'm telling Aunt Isabelle."
"You will do no such thing."
"She's going to love this."
I caught myself almost smiling. Bit it back. We drove in silence for a few blocks, but it was a different silence from before.
"Dad?" Evie's voice was softer now.
"Yes?"
"Thanks."
I arrived at 3:55 on Friday. Early again, but not absurdly so. I'd calibrated it carefully, close enough to pick up time that waiting wouldn't seem strange, far enough that I wasn't obviously eager.
Eager for what, I didn't examine.
The foundation was busier than usual. Through the glass, I could see tables set up, displays being arranged, and peoplemoving with purpose. Preparations for the auction. The event was next week.
My phone buzzed. I looked down to see Xavier’s name flash across the screen. I ignored it. It buzzed again. And again.
I picked it up. "What."
"Is that any way to greet your favorite brother?"
"You're my only brother."
"Which makes me your favorite by default. I need a favor."
"No."
