Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem

Chapter 203

Tarquin was in a foul mood, and as his right hand man, Lowell saw right through it. Driving down the highway, he tried to lighten the atmosphere.

“Tarquin, if something’s eating at you, why don’t you just hash it out with Ms. Thorne? No point in bottling it up. You keep this up, and it’s clear Ms. Thorne’s feeling it too.”

Tarquin’s reply was icy. “And what’s her discomfort to you?”

Lowell’s smile was strained. “Nothing, but it’s obvious she’s getting under your skin, and it’s tough watching you like this.”

“And you’ve seen this how? What, are you psychic now?”

Lowell barely managed a chuckle. “Come on, even an idiot could see it! Ms. Thorne’s been a godsend to Elijah, and besides, she’s a lady. Even if she’s at fault, we could afford to be a bit more gracious and give her some slack.”

“Nola’s been good to Elijah too. Am I supposed to bend over backwards for her as well?”

“That’s different. Nola Slater and Ms. Thorne aren’t in the same league. Nola’s efforts are, well, laughable, but Ms. Thorne’s a stand–up

woman.”

“If she’s so great, from now on, you can stick with her and leave me be!”

sighed. Every time Tarquin had a spat with Elysia, he’d turn

“Tarquin…”

“Zip it!”

was a

abuzz with whispers at the sight of Tarquin.

“Why’s he here?”

being invited. Maybe Gideon

Inviting him’s like

been invited; he came unasked.

a chill through the Bradfords, who watched him, uneasy and silent.

here? Who let you in? Get out! Lionel wouldn’t want you here, get

her. He wasn’t

the guests,

over, ignoring the murmurs of the

word, only Allegra’s hysterical cries filled the

a candle for Lionel on Tarquin’s

Tarquin. “Why

you,” Tarquin replied, lighting

Allegra’s got a bone to pick with you! Lionel just died, and here you are, adding to her grief. She’s still your aunt, your dad’s sister.”