“She’s pregnant,” I remind him.
“Such a shame. Just two please.” He bats his eyelashes at the waiter, who sends him a sexy smirk in return. “And hurry.”
The moment the server is gone, I’m slapping Monty’s arm. “You’re naughty.”
“He’s cute. I can’t miss my opportunity to flirt.” Monty drains the last of his drink. “Just because I’m seeing Cliff doesn’t mean I’m dead.”
“True.” My gaze catches on a dark-haired pregnant woman, making her way toward our table, and my heart leaps to my throat. “Summer’s here.”
“Gorgeous mama!” Monty exclaims, leaping to his feet and wrapping her up in a big hug. “God, it’s so good to see you.”
“Monty.” Summer returns the hug with the same enthusiasm, tilting her head back as she clutches him close. “I’ve missed you.”
I rise to my feet, afraid she might not hug me. Would she reject me? I’d deserve it. I know we’re on better terms, but sometimes it feels like there’s still a hint of animosity between us. “Hi, Summer.”
She turns to me, her cheeks glowing, her smile large. Genuine. “Sylvie. You look…”
“Ravishing, right?” Monty adds.
“I was going to say beautiful, but ravishing is more appropriate.” Summer hugs me and I squeeze her tight, closing my eyes, all the air escaping my lungs. This feels real. Almost too real, and tears threaten to spill. “I’m sorry we didn’t get to talk much at the reception.”
“It’s okay.” My smile is so big it hurts as it stretches my mouth, and I fall into my seat, watching as she settles in next to me.
“I’m so glad we could do lunch,” Monty says, clapping his hands together.
Summer sends him a look, and he drops his hands in his lap. “You would suggest the most public location to meet.”
“If we can’t help spread the gossip that we make by choosing a very public spot to meet, then what’s the point of lunch?” Monty lifts his brows. “Besides, you both agreed. It’s just as much your fault as mine.”
I shake my head, sharing a conspiratorial glance with Summer. “I didn’t choose this place, that’s for sure.”
“Please, you used to put your business on the front page of every gossip site, just to get a rise out of your mama,” Monty says drolly.
“I don’t bother with her anymore.” I wave a hand. “Our relationship is over.”
“For real this time?” Summer asks quietly.
My gaze catches on hers, and I nod slowly. “I can’t be alone with her. Ever again.”
Monty glances from me to Summer, then back to me again. “I feel as if I’m missing something here.”
“You’re missing nothing. Sylvia Lancaster is a toxic human, that’s all,” Summer says firmly, and I’m grateful for her answer.
“Aren’t most of the Lancasters?” Monty laughs when we both shoot him a dirty look. “I mean it with love! Our generation is much better than the previous one, my family included. Though you have to admit, all of those Lancaster brothers that came before us are a bunch of real pricks.”
“Augustus isn’t so bad,” Summer counters.
I snort laugh. My father even has Summer in his sway.
“I hear Reginald is a nightmare.” Monty mock shudders. “Mean to the very bone. Treats all of his children like shit.”
“Especially my cousin Charlotte,” I add.
“Well, she’s fine now, married to that blond hunk Perry Constantine.” Monty’s eyes glitter. “He’s gorgeous.”
“You think every man is gorgeous,” Summer says with a laugh.
“I can’t help that the Lancasters have impeccable taste. Or impeccable looks. I do think the only uncle of yours that has any sense is George, Sylvie. His only fault is he can’t keep his dick in his pants.”