Chapter 12

Danica totally misinterpreted Vincent's polite refusal as concern for Brinley. With a nudge and a cheerful grin, she turned to Brinley. "See? What did I say?Vincent only wants to make sure you aren't wearing yourself out."

This drew a bright smile from Brinley. "It's no burden at all, Vincent. I actually like doing these little things for you."

Meanwhile, Hannah toyed with her fork, her appetite gone in an instant.

Her reaction didn't escape Vincent's notice, but just as he was about to speak up, Danica beat him to it."Sharon's 70th birthday is coming up fast. I've decided to let Brinley take the lead with the planning this time." Her tone sparkled, as if she had just shared a fabulous surprise.

In Danica's mind, Hannah and Vincent's upcoming divorce meant Sharon's birthday planning was the perfect chance to let Brinley shine. A flawless event would give her an excuse to announce Brinley as her chosen daughter-in-law and set everything in motion for the future.

Confidence radiated from Brinley as she nodded."Thank you, Mrs. Jones. I'll make sure Sharon has a birthday she'll remember for the rest of her life."

Turning to Vincent, Hannah's face was shadowed."Well, since you've already picked somneone else for the job, why bother asking me?"

"I didn't know until just now," Vincent said, frowning slightly. He turned to Danica. "Hannah's handled this every year,and-"

Cutting him off with a dismissive wave, Danica pushed her point. "She's organized it enough times.Skipping one party isn't the end of the world. We need a change."

Calm and steady, Vincent replied, "It's still Grandma's birthday. Her granddaughter-in-law should handle it."

Danica held her position. "Brinley practically grew up under Sharon's roof. She knows what the family likes.Why shouldn't she take care of the birthday planning?"

With a soft, self-effacing smile, Brinley looked down."Mrs. Jones, perhaps we should let Hannah handle it.I probably am overstepping. After all, I'm just an outsider. Hannah's much better suited for this."

It was a calculated retreat to win support, and Brinley played her part to perfection. Hannah saw through her charade in an instant.

A single glance from Hannah carried all the cold contempt she felt. "That's correct. You're just an outsider, and I am more suited."

With her lips pressed tight, Brinley lowered her eyes,pretending to be wounded.

Danica wasted no time jumping to Brinley's defense."Vincent, can't you see how upset Brinley is?"

A note of regret crept into Vincent voice."That's not what I meant at all."

Never one to give up,Danica pressed her case "Let's compromise. Brinley wvill lead the planning,and Hannah can step in as her assistant.Does that sound fair?"

"That sounds perfect," Brinley chimed in immediately. "I'd love to learn from Hannah."

A sharp laugh escaped Hannah. "Absolutely not.Why should I take orders from her?"

Softening her voice, Brinley tried to appeal to the room."I've been abroad all these years.Sharon's always been kind to me. Now that I'm back, I just want to do something nice for her. Hannah,it's just a celebration-does it really matter who's running it?"

No sign of yielding appeared on Hannah's face."Either I take charge or I'm out.if you want the spotlight,then own it. If not, don't bother

Eyes wet and pleading, Brinley turned to Vincent.allI want is to make Sharon happy. Could you please talk to Hannah for my sak<e?"

Several long seconds passed before Vincent gave his verdict."We'll go with Mom's suggestion."

Hannah snapped,"Excuse me?"

Unruffled, Vincent explained, "This may be Brinley's only opportunity. You'll have more chances in the future."

Expression dull, Hannah responded, "I am not on board." They would soon be divorced, and she didn't have any more chances. By then, as an ex-wife, her place in this household would be next to nothing.

Vincent closed the discussion. "It's settled."