endeavor, not to mention the enormous payday that came along with it, she was relieved that she now had a few more days to digest what she’d signed on for. More time to research the man who’d become a household name across the globe. The files Angela had sent earlier were just the tip of the iceberg. She was planning on using this extra time to dig deep into his life and prepare herself for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Hundreds of blue links appeared on her computer screen, and she clicked on the first one. Just the basic information, nothing she didn’t know. Later, when she wasn’t rushed, she’d refine her search and read as much as she could before meeting him. Lauren liked to be prepared. She logged off the Internet, dreading what she had to tell her dad. Part of her was miffed that she was in this position; the other part of her knew that even though her father was set in his ways, he would be just fine.
She pulled her hair into a ponytail, slipped her Uggs on, and headed downstairs. She wanted to be as comfortable as humanly possible, given the discomfort she was about to cause her father.
Her parents were seated at the table in the kitchen, and as was the norm, they were having coffee and dessert, though tonight, somewhat later than usual.
“Smells delicious,” she said as she helped herself to a slice of pecan pie. “I’m sure the calories are off the chart.”
“Of course they are, but it’s the beginning of the holiday season. It’s only natural that we gain a few extra pounds here and there,” her mother teased, patting her slim hips. “I try to cut out the cream and sugar in my coffee to make up the difference.”
“Neither of you two girls need to watch your weight. If anything, it wouldn’t hurt if you gained a few pounds.”
“Thanks, Dad. I love to hear that, even though it’s not true.” Lauren could gain a few pounds, and no one would notice except her waistline. The same for her mother, as they were built alike.
Lauren filled a mug with coffee and sat down opposite her father. “Dad, I need to talk to you about something that’s happened, and before you say anything, I need you to hear me out.”
“I’m listening,” he said.
Lauren glanced at her mother, then back at her father. “I’ve accepted a contract to write another biography.”
His eyes lit up. “Lauren, that’s wonderful news. Who’s the lucky one?”
This was the part she’d been dreading. Lauren knew her dad was proud of her work, often bragged about it, but since the biography was of this particular person, she was certain that he’d raise the roof the minute she spoke his name. “John Giampalo.”
He appeared puzzled. “Never heard of the guy.”
She looked at her mom. Of course, he knew who he was. They’d discussed him on more than one occasion. Lauren would swear that he’d totally lost his memory, or that he knew exactly who she referred to and wasn’t letting on that he did.
“Dad, are you sure?” she asked a second time. Maybe there was something to his forgetfulness?
“I’m sure. Who is he?” he asked.
“Dad, we’ve talked about Globalgoods.com before. I distinctly remember our conversations. You know, the Internet? Online sales?”
She saw a slight change in his facial expression. His mouth turned down at the corners, and his eyes squinted ever so slightly.
“Nope, I don’t know the guy,” he persisted.
“Mother? Do you remember us talking about this?” She turned to her because Lauren knew for a fact her mother knew exactly who John Giampalo was. Earlier, they’d discussed how much her dad disliked what Globalgoods.com represented.
“I do,” she answered.
“That’s it?” Lauren asked, aggravated at both her parents. “You and I discussed this, you said you would wait and let me tell Dad.”
“Yes, I did,” her mother agreed.
“And we talked about Dad’s lack of enthusiasm on the topic, or did I imagine that?”
“We did, and no, you did not imagine anything.”
“Dad? Would you please speak for yourself?” Lauren huffed. “This is beyond childish.”
“I think your mother is doing a fine job speaking for me.”
Lauren gave her mom the evil eye. “Mother, what is going on? Or isn’t?”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about, dear. We’re having coffee and dessert.” She lifted her cup in front of her lips.
“I can see that.” Lauren knew she’d have to take control of the conversation; otherwise, the three of them could banter back and forth all