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The reception was elegant and gay I couldn't i Nelson's and his fiancee's parents were taking would have made it much better The caterers did a wonderful job We spared no expense and had prime rib, lobster, shrietables and fruit, and the fanciest desserts The decorators had turned the roolitter Our orchestra, played well, and all the guests anted and expected were there It was at least as nice as Nelson's engagement party Whenever anyone coave me all the credit

"She's the one," he said, "who planned it all I've been too busy working on our holand," he declared

"You couldn't ask for a more loyal subject," Nelson kiddedme

"I could ask for you," I shot back and he widened his eyes and then laughed and performed an emphatic European bow

"No need to ask, Madaain, asked me to dance while his fiancee was occupied

"However, I do now need to ask for Samuel's permission You are his wife," he said and turned to Samuel

"I'm his wife, but I'm still an individual," I interrupted Nelson looked at Saed, and held out his arladly went In my mind we floated on that dance floor However, when I openedat us and s Instantly, I stiffened

Later, before Samuel and I left for the yacht, Belinda came up to me to whisper in my ear

"Maybe you got married too fast, Olivia Maybe there was still a chance"

"Whatever are you talking about, Belinda? I' silly," I added quickly so she would say no more "Just look after Daddy while I'm away You have more responsibilities at the house now"

"What?" she snapped "We still have Carmelita and Jerome"

"I' about looking after Daddy"

"Daddies have to look after their daughters, not daughters their daddies," she sang "Have a fun ti when you return"

She hugged me and then flew off to dance with Arnold "Ready?" Samuel asked

"Yes I just want to say good-bye toher eyes at Nelson now I saw him hide a smile