“There’s not much capital where I’m from, so I’ve got to come to the city and make my case to people with money,” Victor explained. Then Mike dropped a bombshell. “I’m leaving for a work trip next week.” The plate of bread nearly slipped from Marina’s hands. “What trip?” she and Victor asked at the same time.
This was the first she had heard of it. Mike shot her a warning look, silently begging her not to challenge him in front of his father. Marina swallowed what she wanted to say and kept quiet. “They called this morning,” Mike said smoothly. “They moved my training up to this month. I have to go or I’ll miss it again.”
Marina decided to save the argument for later and kept playing the part of the capable hostess. Sneaking glances at Victor, she was struck by how good he looked for fifty-two. The gray at his temples and the lines on his face only gave him more presence. She found herself wanting to know whether he still lived with the younger woman Mike had once mentioned, but she couldn’t bring herself to ask.
After lunch, Victor left for meetings, and Marina turned on Mike. “Why am I always the last person to hear about your plans?” she demanded. “You were asleep when they called. It’s not my fault the schedule changed. Can we not do this on Dad’s first day here?” Mike said, already retreating.
Marina swallowed the hurt because she understood exactly what he was doing. The next few days passed in strained quiet. Victor spent his time in meetings, Marina juggled work and the house, and Mike hid behind his screen. The day before Mike was supposed to leave, he rushed out to gather paperwork and buy things for the trip.
Marina was in the kitchen cooking when Victor came in smiling, carrying a cake and a bottle of sparkling wine. “Good news,” he said. “The investors said yes.” Marina congratulated him politely and offered to open the bottle. Being alone with her father-in-law made her nerves tighten every time.
She drained her first glass too quickly and caught the amused look on his face. “You always handle stress like that?” he asked lightly. “You drink that like soda.” Embarrassed, Marina stood up and busied herself plating pasta and meatballs. Her heart was pounding, and she could feel his attention on her back.
“Have another,” Victor said gently, making it clear he wasn’t judging her. After the third glass, he asked, “Tell me honestly—do you love my son?” “I do,” Marina lied, trying to make herself believe it. Victor gave a rueful smile. “A man’s only worth holding on to if he’s willing to move mountains for you.”
“I loved Mike’s mother once,” he went on. “Then I made a mess of things. I chased women, and she kept waiting for me, looking the other way. I was a handsome fool back then…” “You’re still a handsome man,” Marina said before she could stop herself. In the next moment, Victor’s broad hand rested over hers…
