Noah clenched his fist and glared at Diane. Who did she think she was? Gritting his teeth, he shot up from his seat and met her where she was standing to give the illusion that he was expressing his condolences. He could barely hide the look of disgust on his face when he spoke.
"If you utter one more negative word to or even about my daughter again, there will be severe consequences, do you understand me? You want me to lead, fine. I'll show you leading, but you better make damn well sure you're in line." He spoke quickly and quietly, and he walked away without waiting or listening for a response.
Evanne was arguing with her mother on the edge of the crowd, and Noah knew them well enough to guess what was being discussed. He'd be damned if he let that old crow steal his kid. His new path lead straight to the back, right to where Juniper was standing.
"Ms. Jacobs," Noah said, "if you want a break on your Harvest Tax, you'll meet me in my office as soon as possible." Again, he was gone without giving her a chance to argue, this time making a beeline for Evanne. He arrived just in time to catch the end of their argument.
"You should go with her for now, Evanne," he said. "After all, she's right. You're in no condition to take care of a child on you're own right now. Gather anything that is yours or Evelyn's, though. There will be new arrangements by sundown." It was more than a little difficult to come across as strong and confident with his left arm held immobile in a sling, but Noah thought it had worked as he took long strides to his office.
All he had left to do was hope that Juniper showed up after finishing whatever of her own business she had to do.