Free To Honor and Trust by Tracie Peterson, Judith Miller

with gold-rimmed china and sterling silverware. Candlelight glistened in the crystal goblets like starlight in a midnight sky.
    Wes cringed inwardly when he realized he’d be seated between his brother-in-law, Richard, and his father. “I’d be happy to change seats, if you’d like one of your daughters over here by you, Richard.”
    â€œNo need. They’ll be eating their dinner upstairs with their nanny. They raised such a fuss that Helena agreed they could come down for a short time, although I didn’t think she should reward their bad behavior.”
    Helena squared her shoulders. “They’ll be here only long enough to eat a fruit cup, Richard. They need to learn to behave properly when we’re dining out. This is a good experience for them.” She unfolded her napkin and placed it across her lap. “If you care to discuss this further, I’d be happy to do so in our rooms—after dinner.”
    Wes sighed with relief when their waiter appeared and broke the uncomfortable silence by detailing the dinner offerings for the evening. After they had completed their order, Richard nudged Wes. “Exactly what were you doing that caused you to be late this evening? An extra game of golf? Or were you availing yourself of the tennis courts provided for the guests?”
    â€œI haven’t seen the golf course or the tennis courts, Richard. I haven’t seen stables or the racetrack, either. Have you?” Wes immediately regretted his retort. He didn’t want to get into a petty argument with Richard. There was already too much tension around the table.
    â€œI did check the racetrack, and I must say it is quite impressive. I didn’t believe it could compare with Churchill Downs, but it does.” He leaned in and kept his voice low. “Unfortunately, the races won’t begin for another week.”
    â€œI’m sure Helena and the girls will enjoy having you with them to picnic and explore the beach.” When Wesley reached for the water pitcher, a waiter rushed forward and filled the empty goblet.
    As the evening progressed, talk among the men became focused upon the textile mills and the increasing price of wool, labor, and machinery. Meanwhile his mother and the other women discussed the latest ladies’ fashions. Wesley soon discovered he had nothing to offer to either conversation, so he let his thoughts wander toward the charming young lady he’d met earlier in the day.
    â€œSo what do you think, Wesley?” His father, Richard, and Daniel were all staring at him when he looked up from his plate.
    â€œAbout what?” He forked a piece of baked redfish that had likely been the catch of the day.
    â€œYou haven’t heard a word we’ve said, have you?” His father’s voice was laced with condemnation.
    â€œNo, I must admit that my thoughts were elsewhere, but I’m listening now.” He swallowed the bite of fish and wiped his mouth.
    â€œWe were discussing the expansion and your coming on board as manager.” His father glanced at Daniel. “Daniel hasagreed to spend some time showing you the ropes so you’ll be prepared by the time we open the mill. I’m sure he’ll assist you with hiring procedures and the like, won’t you, Daniel?” Their father beamed at Daniel.
    â€œWhatever you decide will be most helpful, Father. We all want the family business to flourish, don’t we, Wes?”
    Daniel lifted his glass to the gathered family members, but Wes ignored the gesture. His stomach had tightened until he felt as if a vise had been clamped around the center of his body. The delightful fish swimming in buttery garlic sauce no longer held any appeal. Instead, the sight of his remaining dinner caused his stomach to lurch. Why did his father think it necessary to discuss this matter now? Surely his father already assumed Wes wouldn’t join the family business, but once again his