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!”

a spat with

“Tarquin…”

“Zip it!”

was a spectacle.

with whispers at

“Why’s he here?”

being invited. Maybe

wouldn’t be that senile. Inviting him’s like asking for trouble.”

hadn’t been invited; he came

chill through the Bradfords, who watched him, uneasy

“Why are you here? Who let you in?

ignored her. He wasn’t there to

prominently among the guests, caught Tarquin’s

ignoring

no one dared say a word, only Allegra’s hysterical cries filled the air.

to the chapel, lighting a candle for Lionel on

“Why did

you,” Tarquin replied, lighting a cigarette

to pick with you! Lionel just died, and here you are, adding to her grief. She’s still your