The Hawthorne Sister

Chapter 7

I entered the Great Room, the others trailing after me. In here, an enormous stone fireplace stood at the front. I loved the vibe of this room, but I think the gargoyles carved into it where a little overkill.

You know what I could really go for right now?

Some applesauce.

Grayson left Libby and Avery at two wingback chairs, heading towards the front. The three lawyers were standing there. I couldn't remember what they were named. 

I moved close enough to hear what they were arguing- sorry, talking about. 

"I'm sorry, Grayson, but we can't start until Jameson is here." One of them said. Grayson looked frustrated. Probably should get him away from there before Mt. Grayson blows.

Walking up, I spoke in a hushed tone. "It's not their fault, Grayson. Quit being a sourpuss and wait." 

Grayson glared at me, but followed me to one of the many couches. 

"Look at Avery." I whispered. "She's already assessing everyone."

Grayson's face remained passive. "I don't see how that's any of my concern." 

I spotted Xander and Nash next to each other.  Oren was nearby, obviously scouting the exits. Finally, Nan walked in. Nash offered her an arm, but she took Xander's instead.

Oof. Rejected.

"This is Nan." He introduced her to Libby and Avery. "The woman. The legend."

"Get on with you." She swatted his arm. "I'm this rascal's great-grandmother. Older than dirt and twice as mean."

When I'm old, I aspire to be her.

"She's a soft," Xander was way to cheerful today. Coping mechanism, I guess. "And I'm her favorite."

"You are not my favorite." Nan grumbled. That's right, Xander. I'm her favorite.

Eh, probably not.

I'll live with my delusions though.

"I'm everyone's favorite!" Xander grinned. 

"Far too much like that incorrigible grandfather of yours," Nan grunted. Her hand shook slightly as she closed her eyes. When she spoke, there was a slight tenderness there. "Awful man."

"Was Mr. Hawthorne your son?" Libby asked gently. I mean... close enough.

"Son-in-law." Nan snorted.

"He was also her favorite," Xander clarified. The way he said it, he made it clear that this wasn't a funeral. We were all grieving, but we had to pull it together.

I saw Libby ask Avery something.

"I'm going to step outside." Avery seemed to be forcing a smile. "I just need some air."

Constantine stopped her. 

"Where are you going? We're about to start."

I stepped forward. "Constantine, Jamie isn't here yet. Let her take a breather." 

Constantine sighed and stepped aside. 

Avery exited. I bet she's going to run into Jamie.

I started steeling myself for what would happen in mere minutes. I'd win ten thousand dollars, and be left 250,000.01. That and a hotel chain.

I'd have to pretend I didn't see this coming. 

"How are you feeling?" Grayson asked. 

He shouldn't have been caring right now. It'd make it even harder to basically betray them.