Page 49 of Angels & Whiskey

“No, not at all. I’m just sitting here reading.” I shrugged while I led her to the kitchen. “Would you like something to drink?”

“Water, thank you.” She sat down at the dining room table. “What are you cooking? It smells delicious.”

“Oh, thank you. It’s roast with potatoes and carrots.”

“Rich is a lucky guy, coming home to a home cooked meal every night.”

I fought the urge to laugh. If she only knew the consequences I’d face if I didn’t have the meal ready. “It’s no big deal. I have time to do it.” I waved off her comment and grabbed her a bottle of water from the fridge before we got to work inviting people to Rich’s party.

“Have you got your dress yet?” she asked, stuffing an envelope.

“Not yet. Haven’t had time to go. Have you?”

“No, but most nights this time of year are nice nights to have a party. I’ll probably have a sleeveless dress so I don’t get too hot from running around.”

“That’s a good idea.” I smiled. I wanted to wear a sleeveless dress or at least one with capped sleeves, but I could only do that if Rich didn’t touch me again before the party. I needed time for my current bruises to heal. “I’m not sure what style I want yet. I’ve never been married to a mayor before,” I joked.

She laughed. “Me, either.”

Two and half hours later, all two hundred and forty-four envelopes were addressed. We could only fit approximately two hundred people on our property, but Rich wanted it full, so we invited more, knowing people wouldn’t be able to make it.

After Lea had left, I waited for Rich to come home.

And waited …

And waited …

I woke on the couch, the morning sun shining through the glass windows that overlooked the golf course in the distance. I ran to the bedroom. The bed was still made like I had made it the morning before. I ran to my cell phone; no missed call from him.

I dialed his number and after five rings, it went to voice mail. I began to worry. I still loved him, but—if something happened to him … No, I couldn’t think like that. A few minutes later, I heard the garage open and I ran to the door, opening it.

Rich stepped out of his car. “Morning, princess.”

“Morning? What the fuck, Rich? Where were you?”

“Obviously you didn’t care enough to call me to find out,” he hissed, walking passed me and into the kitchen.

“I was waiting for you and I just woke up on the couch.”

“I know,” he murmured.

“What? How do you know?”

“Autumn, I’m too tired for this conversation. I’m going to bed.”

“But where were you?” I pressed.

“At work where I always am.”

“Overnight?”

“Yes, overnight, Autumn! Don’t question my actions.”

“Fine, I won’t.” I stormed off toward our bedroom, but Rich grabbed my elbow, halting me.

“Are you talking back to me?” he hissed.

I stood still, his fingers biting into my skin. “No,” I whispered. “I just don’t like sleeping alone,” I lied.

His grip didn’t loosen. “I’m the man of this house, Autumn. I can come and go as I please.”

“Okay.” I shook my head. “It’s time for me to go to the gym.”

“Good,” he grumbled, letting me go and loosening his tie—a navy blue one … not the purple one I’d picked out.

Not wanting to press my luck even more, I changed, made myself a protein shake, and headed toward Club 24 hoping I’d see Gabe—someone who appreciated me.