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

“Tarquin…”

“Zip it!”

funeral was

abuzz with whispers

“Why’s he here?”

about him being invited. Maybe Gideon requested his presence?”

senile. Inviting him’s like asking for

been invited;

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

the chapel, saw Tarquin and screamed, “Why are you here? Who let you in? Get out! Lionel wouldn’t want you here,

her. He wasn’t there to

seated prominently among the guests,

in pockets, walked over, ignoring the

word, only Allegra’s hysterical cries filled

chapel, lighting a candle for Lionel on Tarquin’s behalf.

Tarquin. “Why

lighting a cigarette and

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