India automatically stood straighter. She was considered the artist of the family and her brother... Well, he was the son, which made him their father’s pride and joy. Everyone agreed Elaina was the beauty, but that didn’t stop her big sister from quickly sizing up India every time they were together. That didn’t make her sister’s scrutiny any less annoying. So, India wasn’t dressed to impress. She’d come straight from the airport, leaving her luggage in the car in her rush to get inside and figure out why there were so many vehicles in the long drive. She wore jean shorts with a white tank top that sported the words Plays Well With Others beneath musical notes. Elaina’s peach silk blouse and tan pencil skirt easily outshone India’s wardrobe, but India had traveled all day and opted for comfort. That had to count for something, right?

Elaina’s full lips finally spread into what India assumed was supposed to be a welcoming smile. “Well, you’re back. I wondered if you would actually come. I guess Daddy hasn’t completely lost his hold on you.”

India took a deep breath and smiled just as sincerely as her sister. “I’m not here for—” she looked around at the decorations “—whatever is going on. I have a break in touring and now I’m home.”

Elaina’s dark eyes widened. “Oh, well, you’re home just in time.” She turned to the woman next to her. “Gwendolyn, I’ve got to get my baby sister up to speed. You go check to make sure the crystal glasses were delivered. Please let Sandra know India’s back.”

Sandra was the head housekeeper for the estate. India didn’t know her—she had started after India had already left. According to Byron, the woman was a saint.

Gwendolyn gave India a curious look before she nodded at Elaina. “I will, and I’ll make sure there are no oysters anywhere on the menu.”

“Please see that you do,” Elaina said in an exaggerated tone.

When Gwendolyn walked away, Elaina strolled over to India. “Gwendolyn is a straight-up pit bull when it comes to party planning. If there is an oyster in the house, she’ll make sure it’s destroyed.”

India’s lips twisted. “She sounds delightful.”

Elaina smiled ruefully. “Actually, she’s a little scary.”

“Scarier than you?” India said with disbelief. Elaina was nearly a carbon copy of their late mother. Witty, smart and unwilling to take shit from anyone.

Elaina lifted one slim shoulder and placed the tips of her manicured fingers on the other. “No one’s scarier than me.”

India smiled and some of the tension eased from her spine. She’d forgotten that Elaina made her laugh occasionally. “So, this thing is for Byron?”