Chapter Twenty-Seven
Taylor
The sun shines overhead and the humidity is high as I stand to the left of the stage, waiting for Chandler to join me for his speech.
A band plays in the distance, the music a pleasant distraction.
My sister is by my side for moral support.
I made sure to eat something so I don’t get lightheaded, and I’m as ready as I’ll ever be.
When I dressed this morning, my skirt was tight and I realized I’m now ready to go shopping for clothes with more give around the stomach. I’m uncomfortable enough to make that my top priority once today is over.
“I’m sorry Mom and Dad can’t be here too,” Holly says, tucking a strand of dark hair behind her ear.
I’m actually glad they’re not here. The way my stomach is churning isn’t good. My gut screams something is going to happen when it comes to Chandler. I just don’t know what. But I don’t want to alarm my sister. “Poor Dad. He woke up and felt dizzy. I’m glad Mom stayed home with him.”
She nods. “Me, too. He shouldn’t be alone.”
I look around, noting nobody is standing nearby, so I’m free to talk. “Holly, you should know something,” I say to her in a low voice. Whispering is still my safest bet. Since she’s been aware of my situation since almost the beginning, she at least needs to know my next steps.
She tips her head to the side. “What is it?” Her voice is as low as mine.
“Jack is talking to a criminal attorney for me.” My lips are close to her ear.
“He’s going to set up a meeting with the Federal Election Commission.
I need to turn Chandler in and explain how he’s framing me.
Or threatening to make it look like I participated in his schemes.
I can’t live like this anymore.” I place my hand on my belly.
“I have priorities now that go far beyond just me.”
“I’m very proud of you.” She squeezes my hand. “If you want me to come with you, I will.”
I smile and pull her into a hug. “You’re the best. But I’ll have Jack with me. The hope is that they’ll want to take down a corrupt state senator enough to give me a free pass.”
“That makes sense. What are you going to do if Chandler proposes to you before you can do that?” she asks.
My stomach twists uncomfortably at the notion.
“I’ll say no. He can threaten me all he wants, but my plan is in motion.
Even if I get into legal trouble, it has to be better than this constant dancing to his tune or letting him cause more problems for Jack’s business.
” I’m just doing his bidding today because it’s planned and easier than intentionally setting him off.
“Ladies.” Chandler approaches, wearing a blue pin-stripe suit with a white shirt and a red tie. Very political and authoritative. “You’re both looking lovely today.”
I glance around, noting he’s not alone. His cadre of minions is around him, including my cousin David, who in all probability followed me home from Florida to be here.
“Thank you, Chandler. You always know the right thing to say.” Holly forces a smile.
“It’s part of my charm,” he replies and I do my best not to gag.
“Are you ready for your speech?” I ask, trying to be pleasant in public.
He nods, patting his breast pocket where his papers are obviously tucked away. “Public speaking is my forte.”
I bite the inside of my cheek at his arrogance. “I’m aware.”
“So how was your time in Florida?” he asks in a snide tone, since I’ve avoided getting together with him in the two days since I’ve been back. His jaw tics in a way that lets me know he isn’t happy with me.
A genuine smile curves my lips. “I had a lovely time. Thank you for asking.”
“Well, now you’re back where you belong,” he says, hooking his arm through mine.
“That’s debatable,” I say under my breath.
A loud screeching noise sounds from the microphone onstage and Holly puts her hands over her ears. “They’re obviously getting ready.” She winces. “I’m going to go find a place where I can watch.” She gives my free hand an unobtrusive squeeze. It seems to be our thing today.
“Okay.” I blow out a slow breath of air, reminding myself I can play this charade for a little while longer.
It’s almost over.