"Whoa, sister-in-law, what are you doing? Claire's got it right—we're just here to wish you and Phil well."
"Pull a stunt like that and you're making Phil look bad in front of all of us."
The others nodded along eagerly, but I didn't miss the mocking amusement in their eyes.
I pulled my clothes tighter around myself, trying to cover what had been exposed.
The gesture only made them restless again.
"Don't bother covering up—it'll just be more trouble to take off later."
"You don't get it, sister-in-law. The rougher we go, the more sincere the blessing."
The one who'd been leading them said this as he reached his hand straight toward my chest.
I didn't say a word. I slapped him across the face as hard as I could.
The room went dead silent.
Phil, who hadn't said a single word this whole time, finally opened his mouth—face twisted with anger.
"Irene Gilbert! What the hell are you doing?"
"I grew up with these guys—ran around bare-assed together since we were kids. How could you lay a hand on him?"
Claire stepped forward then.
"It's these idiots' fault for taking it too far. They never know when to shut up. Don't take it to heart, sister-in-law."