Behind him, Beatrice shouted,

“And tell Thomas he owes us an apology!”

For ten years, I had hidden much of my marriage from my parents.

I didn’t want them knowing how I was treated.

Brian knew that.

Which was exactly why he had gone there.

“Leave my father out of this.”

“Then do what I told you.”

He hung up.

I immediately called Dad.

“Brian is outside your workshop.”

“I know.”

He sounded surprisingly calm.

“I can see him.”

“Please stay inside. He’s looking for a fight.”

My father paused.

“Don’t worry about me, sweetheart.”

Then he added,

“I’m not alone.”

Before I could ask what that meant, a hotel manager approached.

“Ms. Reyes? Chef George Harrison is on his way. He said he’s stopping at your father’s forge first.”

I nearly closed my eyes with relief.

George Harrison was one of the most respected chefs in the country.