“I’m sure you have.” He grew quiet as he pondered. “How long were you married for before he passed?”
“Six years.”
“Oh, dear.” Empathy rolled off him. “That isn’t fair. I had decades with Betty, and even that didn’t feel like enough.”
“I would’ve loved to have met her,” I said as Max walked in with two plates on a larger platter.
“And she would’ve loved you…and Josie, too.” Liam peered up at Max as he positioned a plate in front of him. “Don’t you agree, Max? These girls sure keep the Harlow men in line.”
Max passed me my meal with a wink. “Indeed, they do—whether they like it or not.”
Movement from the doorway caught my attention, and I almost dropped my cutlery.
“Adam,” Liam announced happily. “I didn’t think I’d see you again until next week.”
“And miss spending time with you? Not a chance.” He moved to his grandfather’s side. “I organized a few days off to make up for my sudden departure.”
“Oh, don’t trouble yourself. I know how much work you have to do.”
His eyes never wavered from his grandfather. “It’s not as important as you, Gramps. Nothing is.”
The comment stung, but it was well deserved.
“Well, join us for dinner. Max, can you please organize another meal for Adam?”
Max nodded. “Of course.”
“It’s fine. I’m not hungry,” Adam cut in. “Plus, my seat is taken.”
“Adam…” Liam rumbled in warning.
“It’s okay.” My knife and fork rattled as I stood. “I can eat in my room.” I told him I’d stay out of his way, and I meant it.
“Nonsense. There is room for both of you. Adam, pull up another chair, and I’ll have Max bring you some dessert. Perhaps your favorite ice cream will put you in a better mood.”
“I doubt it.” Adam retrieved another chair while I sank back into mine.
“So, you took my Rolls for a spin, I hear.”
I peeked up at Adam as I picked at my meal.
“Yeah, I’m sorry about that. I should’ve asked first.”
“It’s fine. It’ll be yours soon anyway.”
Adam grumbled. “Gramps…”
“I know, I know,” he uttered with a sigh. “So why the mad dash out of here? Is everything okay at Harlow Corp.?”
“The company is fine. Don’t listen to Dad.” He took the fork out of his grandfather’s rickety hand to help him eat.
“Oh, I don’t. I know it’s in safe hands.”
“Thanks.”
“Then you must’ve been chasing a girl. Did you have a big date in the city?”
“What?” Adam fumbled with the fork. “No.”