“I know of it; not sure if I’ve been there,” Lauren said.

They chatted throughout the meal, as any normal family would. When Lauren excused herself, saying she would bust if she ate another bite, they all laughed, remembering the ride with Derek.

“I’m still embarrassed,” she said, as she and Sandra Marie began clearing away the dishes.

The guys made themselves scarce while they washed up.

“Don’t be, kiddo. G’s out there having a cigar now, and they’re on the balcony, so they can’t hear us. He wanted to get the Christmas tree set up, but there wasn’t enough time. We usually drive to one of the tree farms, pick out several, and have them cut and delivered. I know it sounds a bit over the top, but you should see this place, the offices, and John’s mountain home when they’re decorated. I think they’d give the Biltmore estate a run for its money as far as the decorating goes. We’ve got the best team of tree trimmers in the Northwest.”

Lauren pulled her hair away from her face. “Sandra Marie, can I ask you a personal question? It’s fine to say no.”

“Ask away,” she said, drying her hands with a tea towel.

“Tell me about your name,” she asked her. From the look on her face, it was not the question she had expected.

“It’s my full name. My father always used my middle name when I was growing up, didn’t matter what the situation was. I was Sandra Marie, and it stuck. Everyone calls me this as though it’s one name, and it’s fine. The guys don’t always. You’ve probably heard them call me San, and that’s okay, too. I’ll answer to just about anything.”

“Another question. Are you comfortable telling me about your relationship with Mr. G?” Lauren knew this was very personal, but they had all made her feel so included, as though she were part of the family, so she didn’t feel as though she was being too intrusive.

“Of course. As you might have observed at the office, we’re polite and professional because that’s what works for us. G is down-to-earth, but he’s a true genius. Has an image to maintain, so we’re close friends at work, but outside of work, G and I have been together for twenty-one years.”

Lauren’s jaw actually dropped.

Sandra Marie laughed. “Caught you by surprise?”

“A little bit. I knew there was something between you two; I didn’t expect the time span. You’ve been with him since the beginning then?”