Kira tapped her foot, demonstrating her irritation with the whole affair. “I can’t believe Caroline wanted her here. I mean, she stole from several members of our set. She no longer belongs with us.”
“She stole nothing, Kira.” Ethan’s voice was mild but held a warning, which Kira, as usual, disregarded.
“She profited from it. She tried to destroy us. I’m deeply offended at having to attend an event with her here.” The last words rose to a shrill demand.
“Well, you know how to rectify that, don’t you? The ferry leaves every two hours,” Ethan snapped, and Kira’s jaw hung open. Then she looked at William for support.
And, of course, his father obliged. “Ethan, you have to admit this is very awkward.”
“I don’t know why it’s awkward. It’s been years, and she did nothing wrong.” Cami spoke up next to him.
Ethan growled low in his throat, done with the entire conversation. He extricated himself from Cami and headed for the stairs.
His father’s words stopped him. “You’ll drive us to the hotel for the golf game, right? You’re staying there tonight, aren’t you?”
He dropped his head. Dammit. He’d forgotten that the groomsmen would stay at the hotel, leaving the house for the bride, the maid of honor, the bridesmaids, and her family. Time was of the essence. He had to talk to Delaney before he left, had to explain the situation.
“I’ll be right down.”
“Walk you up, mate.” Matthew materialized next to him, and they climbed the stairs together, leaving the crowd of people behind. “I told you this was a mistake. Inviting Cami.”
“I didn’t invite Cami. We’re not dating, just occasional dates for events as needed. Nothing exclusive.”
Matthew snorted. “Well, someone didn’t get the memo and now you have a big problem upstairs. Caroline is going to gut you like a pig. A lot of people are going to get hurt. Delaney, Cami.”
“I’ll talk to her.” Ethan continued climbing the stairs, intent on reaching Delaney.
Matthew laid a hand on his arm. “That may not be enough. And definitely not for Delaney. What’s your plan?”
Ethan stopped at the top of the stairs. “I don’t know. I thought I’d start with talking to her.”
“You’d better have more than that planned. She’s pretty pissed and sweet words won’t cut it this time.”
Ethan nodded, a short quick motion, still not sure what he was going to say. “I’ve got this. See you downstairs in a few minutes.”
Matthew just shook his head and walked the opposite way toward his room to gather his stuff for the transition to the hotel. Ethan squared his shoulders. Time to pay the piper.
* * *
Ethan knocked on Delaney’s door. He’d barely knocked the second time when it was flung open and Caroline stood in the doorway, anger radiating off her in waves.
One hand fisted on her hip and the other pointed in his chest before he could even react. “Are you trying to ruin my wedding? I mean, seriously, what were you thinking?”
He gaped at her, surprised by her reaction. “I didn’t invite her. I had no idea my father would bring her. This has Kira written all over it. Cami’s not my girlfriend.”
She shoved him into the hall and closed the door behind her. “They had to have some idea about you two to decide to bring her along. I mean, this couldn’t have come out of left field. I know she attends some events with you. Could there be more of a commitment than you think?” Caroline’s voice broke. “Ethan, how could you do this to Delaney? I know you’re angry with her, but this is beyond contemptible. And now you two will be uncomfortable and make my wedding a disaster.”
“Then maybe you shouldn’t have played matchmaker.”
“Point taken.” She sighed. “Where are the two of you? You seemed cozy last night.”
“I really don’t want to get into this with you.” His jaw clenched, his entire focus on getting past Caroline the gatekeeper and into the room to talk with Delaney.
“What about Delaney? I think you owe her an explanation.”
“Why do you think I’m standing here? Can you please get her for me? Before I have to leave.” Or be reduced to begging.
She considered him for a long moment, arms folded in front of her. “She’s in the shower.”