they would accept.
Finally, John spoke. “Anthony, thank you very much. It is difficult for me to accept your generosity.”
Tony had one more ploy, “John, haven’t I heard stories about Claire living with the two of you for a year after college?” John said yes, she did live with them. “Perhaps you could justify this as an overdue rent payment?” Tony was smiling. Claire wanted to cry. Instead, she beamed at John and Emily. They had to see how wonderful Tony could be.
John and Emily exchanged glances. Finally, it was Emily that accepted, “Thank you. You have our numbers. Please let us know the details.” The conversation was done.
They all stood to leave and Claire thought about the bill. Apparently, it was taken care of without anyone realizing, one less confrontation. Tony had contacted Eric and he had the car waiting outside. Claire hoped that the polite attitude of the dinner would continue into the car. The women got in first, followed by John, who sat by Emily, and Tony, who sat by Claire.
As soon as Eric pulled away from the curb John began speaking. His voice strong and direct as if he were addressing a jury or judge, “Anthony, I apologize for ambushing Claire in the hallway. And, Claire, I apologize to you for making you uncomfortable.” Emily looked at John with horror in her eyes, completely unaware. Claire exhaled and sat back, thinking only, oh god, he is going to pursue this. She deferred to Tony. “But I have known Claire since she was a small girl. I have done my best to look out for Emily and for Claire, especially since the death of their parents. I love her like a sister.” He smiled at Claire, then back to Tony with all seriousness. “I am an attorney, and I believe that Claire deserves rightful representation regarding the legal ramifications of your marriage.”
Claire didn’t speak, Tony did, “John, I definitely appreciate the fact that Claire has someone else that cares about her well-being. I must emphasize the fact that she will be my wife and I will look out for her. I can assure you that we have an entire team of attorneys that will represent her in any necessary legal circumstance.”
John continued undeterred. “With all due respect, your legal team will look out for your best interests, as they should. Claire is obviously in love with you and trusts your decisions.”
“Are you implying that you do not trust my decisions?”
“No, I am not implying. I am saying that as Claire’s brother-in-law and attorney I should review the prenuptial agreement prior to her signature.”
Claire didn’t feel good about this discussion. Maybe she could help. “Thank you, John, for your concern. I do trust Tony—” She immediately knew she shouldn’t have spoken. She stopped.
Tony continued, “Your concern is admirable. And your persistence is commendable. As Claire’s attorney, not her brother-in-law, I will inform you that we do not plan on having a prenuptial agreement. I want Claire to have half of everything. I do not plan on divorcing her, leaving her, or her leaving me. I believe she should be my partner in every way with everything. She will have half of everything I possess as of December 18.”
John sat in silence and stared at Tony. He hadn’t expected that information. Finally, he spoke. “Have you consulted your team of legal counsel?”
“Excuse me? Are you asking as Claire’s attorney?”
“No, I am asking as your future brother-in-law. I know Claire. I know she is a wonderful woman who is in love. But as an attorney, a man of your wealth should not enter a business deal without a contract, and you should not enter into a marriage without a prenuptial agreement.”
Tony smiled, amused. Amusement did not imply a good thing. Claire prayed it was all a figment of her imagination, perhaps she was sleeping again and this was a nightmare. Emily sat in awe, dumbfounded by the verbal debate that transpired before her. Tony decided the conversation was over. “John, thank you for your advice. Thank you for your legal consultation. Your care and concern for Claire is duly noted and welcomed. I look forward to more lively debates with you in the future. May I make one suggestion?” John said yes. However, his answer was inconsequential. The statement formed as a question was purely rhetorical. Tony would offer his suggestion either way. “These conversations should and will take place in private.” John agreed.
They sat in silence for a while. Finally,