Chapter 57
Latham lifted an eyebrow, his lips curving into a teasing almost-smile. “So, you were saying Albert’s too old, can’t keep up, and doesn’t know how to treat someone
right p>
He paused for effect, eyes glinting. “So you like younger guys, huh p>
A slow grin spread across his face. “That’s funny, because I’m three months
younger than Albert. I work out all the time, and my tennis game is basically at the
top of the amateur league. And trust me, I know how to take care of people p>
Dorothea just stared at him, speechless.
Latham leaned back, looking smug. “So you see, Dorothea, marrying me was definitely the right choice p>
Dorothea forced a weak smile. The thing was, he was perfect in a million ways, but he liked men. And that really had nothing to do with her.
She dropped her gaze, not bothering to reply. Latham didn’t push. Some things just took time.
When he let it go, Dorothea felt a wave of relief. But as their car turned onto the long drive of the Stephens Estate, her nerves crept right back up.
Latham must have noticed. He offered her a reassuring smile. “Don’t worry. My family’s easygoing. They already like you p>
Dorothea thought of kind, gentle Ladd. He was right. The only people who’d ever been hard to get along with were her own family.
She shook off her worries and followed Latham inside.
The Stephens Estate was even bigger than she’d imagined. When the door opened, a little boy was waiting for them.
Six-year-old Garth blinked up at her, chubby hand scratching his cheek. “Uncle, who’s the pretty lady p>
Latham shot him a look. “Garth, could you not touch me with those greasy hands? Stay over there. You’re a mess p>
He turned to Dorothea, dropping his voice. “That’s my brother’s kid. He’s a bit of a disaster. Don’t mind him p>
Garth pouted, the cheeks puffing out even more. “Uncle, you’re so mean. I’m not dirty. You’re always picking on me p>
Latham grabbed a tissue from the table and wiped his hands. “Go check the mirror, Garth. Then tell me you’re not dirty p>
Garth let out a little huff and scampered away.
Dorothea couldn’t help but laugh at the scene, then walked over to Ladd. “Dad, we’re home p>
Ladd’s whole face lit up. “That’s great! Dorothea, I asked Latham to bring you today. I heard you fainted last time you scared me halfto death. Are you feeling better?
Dorothea hadn’t expected Latham to mention that. She nodded. “I’m fine now. Everything’s good p>
Ladd looked relieved. “That’s what I like to hear. And don’t worry. If Latham ever gives you trouble, just come find me. I’ll always have your back p>
A real warmth bloomed in Dorothea’s chest. “Thank you, Dad,” she said softly.
She got up, heading for the
bathroom, and spotted Garth in the
corner, sneaking bites of cream
cake When he noticed her he froze
and looked guilty. “Pretty lady you’re
not gonna tell Grandpa, right p>
Dorothea couldn’t help but laugh. “Don’t worry, I won’t tell. But we’re about to eat, so maybe save the cake for tomorrow p>
Garth’s eyes lit up. “Okay. You’re so nice. Way better than my uncle. You should be my mom instead p>
He didn’t notice Latham coming up behind him. Latham grabbed the straps of Garth’s overalls, lifting him
upwith one hand. “Garth, are you
thone
trying to steal her away from me now p>