Julian offered his hand. “Julian Ashford. Pleasure.”
Garrett recognized the name. I watched it hit him.
“How long?” he asked.
“Eighteen months,” I answered.
The children met Julian the week before. Garrett looked as if he had been slapped in public. He muttered something about custody and support.
“Not here,” I said. “Not today. Enjoy your wedding.”
And I walked away.
Diane nearly vibrated with satisfaction.
Dinner came. Speeches came. Tessa’s father proudly welcomed Garrett into the family and spoke about their business future.
Then Marcus made his move.
He asked Richard Brightwell aside and showed him everything.
For nearly an hour they were gone.
When Richard returned, his face was stone.
He went straight to Tessa and pulled her aside. He showed her something on his phone. Her face drained of color. She looked from the screen to Garrett as if seeing him for the first time.
Then Richard stood and made an announcement.
