Chapter 58

Deidre’s voice hardened. “For heaven’s sake, Phil. Leave the boys to their dinner at least. There’s not a flipping reason they can’t have their time and meet at the party later. You know these things go on for hours.”

“And the very person their honored guests have come to see doesn’t show up until hours after the rest of them?” Phil asked, voice incredulous. “They’ll be furious. And everyone will surmise that Maxx has stood them up. Half of them will be out the door before Maxx gets there.”

Gerry sunk to the step and sat. “You cigar-sucking fuck,” he whispered. “I know what you’re doing, Phil. I fucking know exactly what you’re doing.”