Chapter 489: The Dinner Grant Wasn't Invited To

Julian Cross left the restaurant in a better mood than he cared to admit.

Daniel Whitmore's vintage liquor still warmed his throat, and Helen's sincere thanks had none of the calculation he usually encountered at wealthy dinner tables. Even Clara had smiled at him without suspicion for once.

Only after the Whitmores' car disappeared did Julian notice the pale yellow shawl folded over the chair beside him.

Helen must have left it behind.

He carried it to his car and placed it carefully across the backseat. It was too late to return it that night. He would take it to Clara the next day.

His phone lit up with Mason Reed's fifth message.

Where are you?

We started without you.

Grant is in a mood.

That last line persuaded him.

At Crown Club, Mason occupied a private room with two open bottles and the wounded expression of a host whose guests refused to enjoy themselves. Grant Holloway sat by the window, barely touching his drink.

Mason pointed at Julian as he entered. "Finally. What was so important?"

"Dinner."

"With whom?"

Julian poured himself a glass. "Clara's parents."

Grant's fingers stopped against the rim of his tumbler.

Mason leaned forward. "You had dinner with the Whitmores? Why?"

"Helen wanted to thank me for connecting her with Spencer Hale. Her book launch went well."

"Clara was there?"

"Of course. She arranged the dinner."

Grant looked toward the dark window, but his reflection betrayed the tension in his jaw.

Julian took a slow sip. "Her parents are impressive. Warm, intelligent, no pretension. Daniel even brought a vintage bottle for me."

Mason grinned. "Listen to you. One meal and you're ready to join the family."

"There are worse families to join."

The glass in Grant's hand struck the table harder than necessary.

"Leaving already?" Mason asked as Grant stood.

"I have work tomorrow."

"At this hour?"

Grant ignored him and walked out.

Julian watched the door swing shut. Mentioning Clara's happiness still affected Grant more reliably than any insult.

He checked the time and set down his unfinished drink.

"Don't tell me you're leaving too," Mason complained.

"I have something to return tomorrow."

Julian headed for the door. After a moment of indignant silence, Mason grabbed his coat and hurried after both men.