Catheleen didn't really want to acknowledge her, but with Lambert watching, she had to maintain some level of social etiquette.
"She didn't come. What, do you have a problem with that?" she replied sourly.
Even so, Lambert frowned. "Watch your tone."
Catheleen thought to herself, *Of course. They aren't even married yet, and he's already defending her.*
If they actually tied the knot, it would be unbearable.
Jeanette chimed in smoothly. "It's fine. Catheleen and I get along great. Right, Catheleen?"
*Who gets along with you?*
Catheleen fought the urge to roll her eyes. With Lambert standing right there, she ultimately didn't dare say anything.
Fortunately, Lambert's phone rang, and he stepped away to answer it.
Catheleen instantly rounded on Jeanette. "Why did you come with my brother?"
"I rode in his car," Jeanette replied mildly. "Why?"
"You, you, you..." Catheleen was practically shaking with anger. "You two..."
Jeanette gently pulled her down to sit. "Catheleen, I really don't think I've ever offended you. Why do you dislike me so much?"
Some things were impossible to explain; it was just a gut feeling.
Catheleen put some distance between them, inching closer to Faust.
Jeanette smiled. "Faust, what were you and Catheleen chatting about?"
Faust was friendly and amiable to everyone, always appearing easygoing. "Just casual stuff, nothing specific. What would you like to drink? I'll have them bring it over."
Before Jeanette could answer, Catheleen boldly declared, "I want alcohol!"
She felt so frustrated. Whenever she was upset, she just wanted to drink.
Faust didn't enforce many rules around here.
By the time Lambert returned from his call, Catheleen had already downed a large glass of red wine.
She figured liquid courage was exactly what she needed. Once she was buzzed enough, maybe she could convince her brother to find a different marriage prospect.

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