The dinner was supposed to be a cozy affair, just a casual meal to catch up and chat. But in the end, things took an unexpected turn, leaving everyone a tad uneasy.
Jeffrey barely touched his food before excusing himself with the "urgent business at the office’ line and made his exit.
Once the door had closed behind the last of the guests, Dorothy murmured, “I'm not holding a grudge against Jeffrey. If Karen really had a thing for him, my opinion wouldn't matter. But she’s made it clear that she’s not into his playboy ways.” “I get it. You don’t have to explain,” Everett said. He understood her concern all too well.
Yet he couldn't help but think that Jeffrey had really blown it this time.
He had never seen him like this before! As a longtime friend, Everett wanted to lend a hand to Jeffrey, but the guy had to go and fall for Dorothy's protégé — Karen, the untouchable. What help could he possibly offer now? After everyone had left, Everett asked Kevin to take the kids, Abigail and Langston, back to their place at Bay Residence.
“Go with them. I'll just grab something from Kenneth and I'll be right there.” Dorothy watched the kids pile into the car, but hesitated to follow.
“I'll come with you,” she offered.
“Worried I'll take a swing at Kenneth?” Everett's voice was calm, but it was the eerie calm before a storm.
He had every intention of just saying thanks, but seeing Dorothy so protective was igniting a rage he was struggling to contain.
He hated the idea of her worrying about the other man.
Dorothy took Everett's hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze, “I'm just worried you two might clash.” She knew Kenneth well enough — all polished manners and gentle smiles, but with a temper beneath that composed surface.
And today, of all days, he must be in a foul mood. A confrontation with Everett would just brew trouble that no one could contain, and the two men were not exactly equals in a fight.
“Who would you be more worried about getting hurt in a clash?” Everett asked, despite himself.
Kenneth was like a thorn in his side, uncomfortable and irksome whenever touched.
“It's you of course! You're still recovering from your injury.” His eyebrow quirked in challenge, “You think I can’t beat him?” “You can!” Dorothy assured hastily, “I've never doubted that. You've got the height advantage and all, but you're still healing from a through-and-through!” “So, you'd be worried for me?” “Duh.” Dorothy rolled her eyes and looped her arm through his, “Im coming with you. It's not just you who should thank him. I should too.” Avoiding the issue wouldn't solve anything, and she still had to convince Kenneth to let go and find himself a girlfriend.
Everett looked into her eyes, searching for any trace of affection for Kenneth. Finding none, his irritation eased slightly.
“Alright, let's go together.” They got into the car Kevin had ready for them, and Dorothy dialed Kenneth's number.
“Kenneth, I'm on my way over to pick up some things.” “Alright,” Kenneth’s voice was as calm and smooth as ever, “Is Karen with you?” “She’s not. She went back to her parents’ place.” “Oh,” There was a brief pause before he asked, “So, who are you with?” Dorothy glanced at Everett, who was watching her intently.
Just making a call, and she could feel the tension radiating off him, nothing like someone about to express gratitude.
“I'm with Everett.”
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