“Finally made it. I’ll see you in a few hours.” “Jack, we need to talk.” Kate wasn’t taking any chances. Someone could be listening. Last year Drew called her father, and she innocently assumed it was safe to have a conversation. Her father arrived earlier last year, and no one paid attention to Kate, the newly married bride. This year was different. Everything seemed to be on high alert. She was prepared to protect those she loved from Nicolas. “I’ll pencil you in for a dance, Kathryn.” Her father seemed to sense the urgency in her voice and went along with the facade. “See you soon.” She hurried down the hall to help Maria get ready for the reception. Maria was playing the piano, and her parents wanted her in the ballroom early. They did hair and make-up, then slipped on the dress. “You look so beautiful!” Kate took Maria’s hands. “You could be a model.” Seemed like she was saying that a lot, as she thought back to her birthday and Renae. “Thanks. You’re too kind.”
