“Well, fuck you too,” Nori replied with a crooked grin.
“Sorry, I don’t want to jump on the nepotism train and take a job from someone more qualified and passionate.”
“Spare us, Kiyah. We’re all Nepo babies, and you’re conveniently forgetting that had shit not hit the fan, you would’ve slid into the receptionist position at the firm,” Daisy commented.
“But the difference is that I’m passionate about law, have a degree in Political Science, and am qualified for the position.”
“Whatever makes you feel good,” Nori said, voluntarily sliding the remainder of her shrimp onto Daisy’s plate.
“Thank you, baby,” she whispered, leaning in for a kiss. I averted my gaze as the two shared a moment. Their honeymoon must’ve been what dreams were made of because they hadn’t stopped touching, kissing, and making googly eyes at each other since we left the house. Despite the grief I felt over my failed marriage, I was over the moon for them. I preferred the PDA over them constantly at each other’s throats.
“We just keep running into each other.”
My eyes snapped up, and I was stunned to see Governor Hopeful Branson and his perpetually wiggling son.
“We do. What are you doing in my neck of the woods?”
He switched Pete to his other arm and balanced his backpack on his shoulder. “Would you believe me if I told you I was at Emerald Hills enjoying a sumptuous ladies’ breakfast?”
My brows lifted to the top of my forehead. “You had breakfast with my grandmother?”
He chuckled warmly. “It was all business. I swear I’m not stalking you by trying to get close to your grandmother.”
I shook my head. “The thought didn’t even cross my mind. I can’t help but feel sorry for you. I’m sure she and her friends didn’t allow you to get a word in edgewise.”
“You’d be right,” he agreed with subtle laughter. “But part of being a good politician is being a good listener. The ladies invited me to Emerald Hills because they wanted their concerns heard. The election will be here before you know it.”
Daisy cleared her throat loudly.
“Excuse my rude behavior, Mrs. Powell. It’s lovely to see you again, and congratulations on your nuptials,” Todd said, greeting my sister politely.
“Thank you. This is my wife, Nori.”
“It’s nice to meet you, Nori. Daisy shared amazing things about you. I’d shake your hand, but—” he nodded towards Pete.
“Don’t worry about it. I have an idea; why don’t you join us?”
I glanced curiously at Nori, trying to catch her attention, but she wasn’t paying me any mind.
“Oh, I couldn’t. I’d hate to interrupt your meal.”
“Nonsense. There’s enough room for everyone, and I want to hear more about your ladies’ breakfast. Plus, I wish to address my own concerns, namely, property taxes.”
“Agreed. We’re paying taxes out the behind,” Daisy cosigned, minding her language around Pete.
“Are you okay with Pete and me crashing your lunch, Kiyah?” Todd questioned.
“Um, sure.” I scooted further into the booth, sliding my plate, silverware, and water with me. He’d barely sat when Pete leaped into my lap. “It’s nice to see you again, Pistol Pete.”
“I’m sorry about that,” he apologized, reaching for his son. I waved him off and situated Pete on my lap.
“It’s fine. I don’t mind.”
“Are you certain?”
“I got him. Plus, you’ll need to devote all your attention to my sisters. Good luck, and don’t underestimate the financier.”
He smiled broadly, nearly showing off all thirty-two perfect teeth.