When the limo pulled up to my parents house late Sunday evening, we were surprised to see that my dad was home. The driver opened the door and as my mom hugged us both and thanked Bo I stepped out. ”I want to talk to dad. Be right back.” Mom and Bo just looked at one another, nodded and went back about their conversation. Bo’s eyes darted to me one more time and I gave her a wave that I wouldn’t be long.

”Hi dad.”

”Lauren? Where’s your mother?”

”She’s chatting with Bo. She’ll be in a moment and wait until you see the dress she bought for the gala. She’s a knockout.”

”She always has been.” He smiled shyly and poured himself a drink. A moment later he held one up in offering, but I declined. My stomach turned at the mere thought of a drink after last night.

”Congratulations on your acquisition,” he said raising his glass in a toast.

I returned the gesture with a smile. ”Thank you. I’ve been thinking of expanding for quite a while. The opportunity was right.”

”Yes, that should be a gold mine with you running it.”

”Mhm.” I stepped closer, choking down my hesitance at bringing up the gala again. ”Dad, do you love mom?”

His forehead furrowed and a flash of anger flared in his eyes. ”What kind of question is that, Lauren?”

”Just answer me, please?”

”Yes, of course I do,” he answered with a growl and downed his drink.

I nodded with a smile, ignoring his steely stare. ”Do you love me?”

”Lauren,” he cautioned.

I refused to relent. Closing skills weren’t just for selling cars. ”Dad, answer the question. I know you love my ability to make money, but…Do. You. Love. Me? Its a simple question.”

He sighed and leaned against the bar. ”You know I do.”

”Do I?” I knew he did, but he was horrible at showing either of us any affection and sometimes it hurt. I know it definitely hurt mom.

He shook his head. ”Of course I do. You’re an amazing woman and I couldn’t be more proud,” he answered. The anger had left him, but confusion had set in. Confusion as to why I would ever doubt him.