Consequences

reassured him they were clear.
    The Simmonses’ home was grand, probably about a quarter of the size of Tony’s but large by normal standards, with a good deal of land. The Lexus moved slowly through the gates and up their drive as Tony turned to view Claire. She had her mask secure and appeared beautiful and contented, the ingredients to the perfect companion. He exhaled as his eyes muted.
    They parked on a brick circle directly in front of the home beside many equally nice automobiles. The front door opened as Tony opened Claire’s door. He gently put his arm around her and led her toward the entry. Claire remembered Brent, but Courtney wasn’t what she pictured. She looked younger than a woman with two grown children. Courtney was slender, with short brown hair, soft blue eyes, and a refreshingly engaging smile. Instantly Claire liked her. Brent may owe his livelihood to Tony, but Courtney obviously felt very comfortable around both of them.
    Courtney immediately hugged Claire. “You must be Claire. I am so excited to finally meet you. My dear, you are more beautiful than your pictures!” Claire felt overwhelmed. She introduced herself and called Courtney Mrs. Simmons. When she looked to Tony, he was already in conversation with Brent.
    “Oh goodness, call me Courtney. We will let those two get their business out of the way, so we can have some fun and I will take you around and introduce you to our other guests.” Tony didn’t seem to object, so Claire allowed herself to be ushered off.
    The house was stunning yet homey, not like Tony’s. Children played on these floors, a family laughed, loved, and each room contained priceless memories. Courtney walked Claire through her home toward the kitchen. Designed very modern, brushed stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and tall cabinets were accentuated with intricate tile. Golden lighting fixtures hung at appropriate intervals, not for light but ambiance. The kitchen wasn’t only functional, but was also intended as the centerpiece of the home. The stove was located on a large island that contained a wraparound bar with six tall stools. Out from the kitchen Claire could see a large family room leading to a sunporch and their backyard.
    Claire couldn’t see beyond the porch, but she did notice the suddenly silent room of guests. She couldn’t help but feel their eyes on her, assessing and evaluating. She kept her mask in place. She hadn’t expected to face these people without Tony.
    Courtney didn’t leave Claire’s side as she introduced her to the others. First she met Tom and Bev. Claire did her best to be polite and social. “It is so nice to meet you. I believe Tony told me that you,” looking at Tom, “and Brent are partners.” They continued with some polite conversation. Claire asked Bev about her design business. Years of bartending had taught Claire the art of small talk.
    Next were Sue and Tim. “Tim, I have heard wonderful things about you.” Claire watched as Sue’s smile widened and Tim’s expression softened. She could tell he seemed stressed. Working for Tony could do that to a person and some positive reinforcement would help.
    Then it was on to Eli and MaryAnn. It didn’t take Claire long to understand what Tony meant by Elijah enjoying his own stories. Lastly, Courtney introduced Claire to the couple with Eli and MaryAnn, Chance and Bonnie. Claire wasn’t prepared for this couple. She wondered if Tony knew that they were there. Courtney explained that Chance was an associate of Eli’s in town for a visit, so of course they were welcome to join them. Chance seemed nice enough, but Bonnie made no secret of her evaluation of Claire.
    Courtney offered Claire a drink. Requesting water, Courtney obliged but suggested Claire consider something a little more fun, they had some fantastic sangria. Just then Tony and Brent joined them in the kitchen. Tony looked so relaxed wearing jeans and holding a beer, it almost made Claire laugh. Appearances were everything.
    Brent did his own barbequing, and the men joined him out on the patio. The women gathered around the island as Courtney busied with side dishes. They all offered to help but she wouldn’t hear of it, confessing she hadn’t prepared a thing. Her cook did it all yesterday and now she was only putting them into the appropriate dishes. The conversation quickly went to cooking. Some enjoyed it, others didn’t. Did Claire enjoy cooking? She told them she did. Did