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!”

spat with

“Tarquin…”

“Zip it!”

was a

whispers at

“Why’s he here?”

hear about him being invited. Maybe Gideon requested his

senile. Inviting him’s like asking for

hadn’t been invited; he came

the Bradfords, who watched him, uneasy

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

her. He wasn’t there

seated prominently among the guests,

hands in pockets, walked over, ignoring the murmurs of

one dared say a word, only Allegra’s hysterical cries filled the air.

chapel, lighting a

frowned at Tarquin. “Why did

replied, lighting a cigarette and taking a seat.

called. You know Allegra’s got a bone to pick with you! Lionel just died, and here you are, adding to her grief. She’s still