Accidentally Family (Pecan Valley 1)

“No. I need to see my father.” His tone was curt.

The only thing she remembered about Braden’s father was what a bastard he was. He’d show up drunk to all their football games, pick a fight, and get kicked out—humiliating Braden and stealing the limelight from his talented son. “He’s sick?”

He nodded.

“I’m sorry.” It was the right thing to say.

He looked at her, a small smile on his face. “Thanks.”

She would have smiled back but the gauze slipped from his fingers and the gash on his forehead, still bleeding, did her in. Running was her only option. She did, dodging orderlies and gurneys and ignoring the stares. Thankfully, she made it to the restroom before she added public humiliation to the day’s accomplishments.

…

“That’s all I know at this point.” Rob-the-lawyer Klein nodded at the waiter refilling his tea glass.

Felicity poked at her cobb salad, not in the least bit hungry. She’d hoped for very different news when he’d called. News in general. Instead, she’d wound up having lunch with Rob, in a very busy café, more deflated than ever.

“I’m sorry it’s not good news.” His voice was low. “I’m not giving up.”

“And I appreciate that.” She did, t

ruly. But learning Amber had been a ward of the state since she was twelve would make tracking down relatives a challenge. Even if they managed to locate someone, how would that work? The person would be more of a stranger to Jack than her family.

“No good?” he asked, using his fork to point at her plate.

“It’s delicious.” She forced a smile and stabbed part of a hard-boiled egg.

“This is nice.” Rob sat back in his chair, his gaze sweeping the lunch crowd—enough of a crowd that her lunch would be noticed and that news likely shared before she was back home. “It’s rare I get out of the office for lunch.” He smiled, his teeth drawing her full attention. “The company is nice, too.”

Felicity did her best not to stare, but her sister’s comments about the man’s teeth had her smiling.

Robert Klein’s eyebrows rose, and his smile grew.

That was the sort of male smile she hadn’t received in a long time. And while it was flattering, she was not prepared for that sort of attention from Matt’s lawyer.

Be honest. You’re not prepared for that sort of attention from any man. Period. Especially while front and center for all of Pecan Valley to see and speculate upon. She stared at her salad, nervously pushing around the lettuce and ham.

“When does Honor leave for college?” he asked.

Good. Neutral territory. “Too soon.” Which was true. This was not the summer she’d wanted. This summer was supposed to be heavy on sunshine, beaches, and laughter.

“Matt was very proud of Honor.” He nodded as two men in suits walked past them. “He was always bragging on her. And Nick.”

“He did?” She hadn’t meant to ask out loud.

“Yes.” Rob’s gaze returned to her, and his smile dimmed. “I guess talking about him is hard. I apologize.”

“No, it’s fine.” She shrugged. “He… That’s nice. Knowing that.”

He cleared his throat. “Talking about the ex probably isn’t the best way to spend our first date.”

Felicity’s fork froze inches from her mouth. This was a date? No, this was not a date. This was a meeting—wasn’t it? Yes. That’s exactly what this was. Or, rather, what she thought it was.

“Felicity?”

She turned, spying Graham a few feet away. Seeing him provided instant relief. “Graham.” It was a squeak.

Rob was on his feet, extending his hand. “Graham, good to see you.”