From Ashes of Scandal to His Embrace novel Chapter 130

“It’s been ages. Look at you, all grown up,” Lea said, her voice warm and familiar. “I’ve been overseas for a while and barely had a chance to check in on you. How have you been?”

Lea had heard all about what happened with the Austin family. She never expected so much to change in just a few months. Laurinda must have really gone through it.

“It’s all sorted out now,” Laurinda replied. “But what are you doing here? Grandma didn’t mention you’d be back today. You haven’t even been home yet, right?”

Lea shook her head. “No, I made a last-minute decision to fly back. I haven’t even made it home yet. As soon as I landed, I saw the news online. Adolphus was getting dragged through the mud. I had to show up for him, no matter what.”

She pulled Laurinda in for a hug and whispered, “I already handed over all the stuff you gave me to the Piano Association and the Pianists’ Guild. Aileen’s not getting away with it this time.”

Laurinda smiled, grateful. “Thanks for helping out. You must be exhausted. Let’s go eat at Aeterna tonight and celebrate you coming back.”

Lea looked at Laurinda, taking in the way she carried herself now. She really had grown up. Lea squeezed Laurinda’s hand and said softly, “Honestly, let’s just eat at home. My parents already cooked everything. They called earlier to ask if you were still at the competition and told me to bring you home for dinner. Your grandma made those plum-glazed ribs you love.”

“That sounds perfect. I’ve been thinking about Grandma’s ribs all week,” Laurinda said with a laugh. “Lea, you and Jasper can ride with Josh. We’ll meet you guys at the house.”

“Sounds good. Drive safe, okay? See you soon.”

***

Adolphus parked in the Adams family driveway, got out, and headed to the trunk to grab a stack of gifts.

Laurinda leaned against the car, arms crossed, watching him. “You had gifts ready ahead of time?”

He looked over and shrugged. “I always keep a few in the car. You never know when you’ll need them.”

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