“Great,” she said, but even now, after years, her foot was still tapping in the footwell. Coming to Morelli family parties and seeing the scowl on Mom and Dad’s faces was still enough to give her shivers. I hated that. I hated my wife being nervous of anything.

We were there in no time, pulling up in the driveway where a lot of the guests were still crowded outside. I could tell the party was going to be a popular one, filled with celebrations and cheers. My celebration would be getting home for Arlo and getting Elaine out of that damn dress.

Everyone looked our way as the chauffeur opened the limo doors and we stepped out. There were whispers and wide eyes. It’s the effect you have on people when you’re as powerful and ominous as we are. People are fascinated.

Elaine smiled and waved at guests as we walked through the hallway. I granted cool nods to those I recognized. And nothing to those I didn’t.

We passed through the receiving line in a blur of glitter and silk, giving my father a handshake, pressing a light kiss to my mother’s cheek. They were the official hosts of the evening. It didn’t matter that I ran Morelli Holdings. They would always be the symbolic heads of the family. I kept a tight grip on Elaine, both to protect them from my family’s caustic barbs—and because I’m a possessive bastard. I don’t like anyone looking at my wife. Even my father.

Especially my father.

Bryant Morelli was as bold as ever. My mom was at his side, both of them pasting on a happy smile for the sake of the observers.

“Lucian,” Dad said and gripped my arm. It was when he turned to my princess that his stance became a little more forced. “Elaine.”

“Lovely to see you,” she said as he fake kissed her hand.

Mom was a little more genuine in her welcome at least.

Eventually we made it to the main crush of the gala.

The cocktail waitress in the main hall was shaky as she reached us.

“Your champagne, ma’am,” she said and Elaine took one.

“Your mineral water, sir,” she told me as she handed me my glass.

“Thank you.”

We did the rounds with the hellos, and how are yous even though I couldn’t really give a shit about any of them. We stood at the side of the ballroom as the gala got into the swing. The ceremonial Christmas tree stood proud in the center, glistening and twinkling. It was nice. But not nice enough that my eyes weren’t being drawn to my cell phone every five seconds.

“Relax,” Elaine said. “He’s with Ella. She’ll call.”