Judith Stacy - The Hired Husband

With some effort, Rachel drew herself up. “It’s the La-La luncheon,” she said gravely.

Mitch stopped. “What’s a la-la luncheon?”

“The Ladies Association of Los Angeles,” she said. “The La-La’s, for short. It’s the premiere women’s organization in the city, and the upcoming luncheon is the single most important event on our annual calendar. The luncheon is always—always—hosted here, in our home.”

So far, this didn’t seem like too big a problem to Mitch. “And…?”

“Mrs. Aurora Chalmers—she runs everything in the city—expects me to host the event, as always.”

“And…?”

“And it’s really Mother’s event. She always plans it, arranges things and does a beautiful job. But this year—”

“Your mother’s dead.”

Rachel nodded, sadness causing her shoulders to droop farther.

“And it’s too upsetting for you to do it this year,” he concluded.

She nodded again.

Mitch shrugged. “Then don’t host the luncheon.”

Rachel came to life then. “I can’t back out. Good gracious, what will people think? What will they say?”

“What difference does it make what people think or say?”

She looked at him as if he’d taken leave of his senses.

“It makes all the difference in the world,” Rachel declared. “What sort of reflection would that be on Mother, if I didn’t host the luncheon? What would people think of her? Of the family?”

“Let me get this straight,” Mitch said. “Chelsey can’t return to school, but you can host a luncheon?”

“These are two entirely different circumstances,” Rachel insisted. “There are parties, dances and outings at the school. This luncheon is for a service organization.”

Mitch didn’t really see the distinction, but he let it go and said, “You don’t have to host the luncheon. Not if you don’t want to.”

Rachel’s shoulders sagged again. “I’m afraid you simply don’t understand.”

She left the study. Mitch’s heart ached watching her go. She was right. He didn’t understand.

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