Page 39 of Cameron's Contract

“Mia has a couple of exciting opportunities,” I said. “Right now she’s deciding on a career in fashion or psychology.”

“Don’t you need a degree for either one?” said Mom.

“I’m going to study at university,” said Mia.

“Don’t people usually decide on this kind of thing while at boarding school?”

I threw Mom a stare that told her to pull back on her cruelty.

“Actually, I’m trying to convince Mia to come on board at Cole Tea.” Henry smiled warmly at her.

Dad scoffed. “Not sure any Cole will be welcome after Monday.”

“She’s not a Cole,” said Mom.

“Not yet,” I said with a smile that hit its mark, judging from the way Mom settled back in her chair.

“Still,” Mom said, “trying to catch up on an education squandered is a little lacking in foresight.”

Mia’s face blushed wildly and her gaze fell to her lap.

“Give us a moment, please.” I directed the last waiter out of the room.

“Mom,” I said. “Enough.”

“Well at least you didn’t scold me in front of my staff, Cameron. You may have forgotten every last social grace I taught you, but that one still holds.”

“What are you talking about?” I said.

“I’m sorry,” whispered Mia. “This is my fault.”

“Mia, please,” I warned her and my focus returned to Mother.

“Had you and your brother not gone off and pursued your own agenda, you would have been here for your father. None of this would have happened.”

“Not necessarily true,” said Dad.

“You’ve needed them now more than ever.”

“Henry was destined for West Point,” said Dad. “Don’t bring him into this.”

“Perhaps we should discuss this in private, Mom,” said Henry.

She threw her napkin on the table. “Cameron, you chose to live in another state and pursue a career that has no value.”

“I profoundly help my patients.”

“So could any other doctor,” she said. “You make it sound like no one else could do what you do.”

“Please,” said Dad. “We’ve been over this.”

“I’m here in whatever capacity you need me. I’ve handed my clinic over to my co-workers for now. I’m not going home until Cole Tea is back in your hands, Dad.”

“There should only be family here,” said Mom. “Shay’s family. He’s more than proven his worth.”

“If you’ll excuse us.” I stood and grabbed Mia’s hand.

Henry reached out for my arm and pulled me down. “I was blindfolded when they did it.”