“So I’m assuming that tonight isn’t mutual then,” Luce said, placing her hand on Addison’s thigh.

“That’s right. It's not,” Addison said, shifting slightly as Luce’s finger dipped between her legs. “And I don’t want you here when I wake up.”

Slipping her fingers through Addison’s folds, Luce said, “When am I ever?”

***

“When am I going to get it through my thick head Addison follows her own bloody schedule,” Fran said, pacing the foyer like a caged lion.

“I thought I was the one who was supposed to be nervous.”

Fran stopped mid-stride and looked at the woman sitting on the stairs. “No, you should be terrified.”

“She’ll be here,” Joanna said with a chuckle. “She can’t afford not to be.”

“You’re awfully calm about all of this. I’ll give you that.”

“What’s there to worry about? We both know she can’t back out now, so she’s just posturing for the sake of posturing.”

Fran’s smile filled her face. “Christ, a month in this house, and you’re as cocksure as she is.”

“No, I’m not. I’m just content. This has been like a holiday for me. I’ve eaten every meal with my father. I’ve played cards with him, watched football with him, and even managed to get him to take walks around the house. You have no idea how long it’s been since we’ve been able to do any of that. I’m not cocky. I’m just happy, and there’s nothing Miss Kane can do to change that.”

“Well, we’re about to find out,” Fran said, looking out the window. “The Bentley is pulling up the drive now.”

Joanna took a deep breath and letting it out slowly, she got to her feet. After straightening her skirt, she descended the stairs just as Evelyn came from the parlor to open the front door. Seconds later, Addison Kane marched in.

“Welcome home,” Joanna chirped, doing her best to hide her amusement at the shocked look instantly appearing on Addison’s face. Adding a little more syrup to her tone, Joanna said, “Fran was beginning to worry.”

Addison glared first at Joanna Sheppard and then at Fran, who unlike Joanna, could not hide her mirth.

Fran’s funny bone was tickled even more when she saw the dirty look Addison was giving her, and taking the time to rein in her gaiety, she finally managed to say, “You’re late.”

“You said nine. I still have five minutes,” Addison said, glancing at her watch. “Where’s this happening?”

As usual, Addison was all business and Fran wasn’t the least surprised. “In the drawing room. The registrar is already in there.”

“Then let’s get this over with.”

Hearing the chime of the lift, Joanna took a quick step, blocking Addison’s path. “Not yet.”