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He pulled , Ms Bennet You're going tomind of yours and I'll be euests because of the tent in my pants But s before we get into liqueurs, I'll tug at o into the bathroo present for you…"

I closedof it

Soh the cocktails and chat before dinner, ravelly voice clearly indicating he was happy to see us standing together, one of Drake's hands on the sether, we talked to whoever careet us

Nigel arrived and I was surprised to see him with his partner, Brian Short, well-dressed with iel's shoulder I turned to see my father and wondered how he'd respond He smiled and shook Brian's hand and that was it He was accepted into the inner circle Nigel spied us and ca Brian to Drake and me After we said our hellos, Elaine came by and pulled Brian away for a moment to show him some artwork

Nigel leaned in to me

"So I see your father'ssucceeded"

I sel, but you know my father He has to have his way"

Nigel laughed "Yes That he does" Nigel laid a hand on Drake's shoulder "I already hadmore"

Drake s between them

"Quit being er at him

"Someone has to be Heath seems too busy with his own children"

Then Nigel leaned down and kissed me on the cheek "Happy New Year, Kate"

I squeezed his hand and watched hi a piece of art

I sighed and turned to Drake, who put his arm around my shoulder

"What did he say to you that night?"