Page 101

What?

It takes all my D-list acting skills to hide my shock, and I doubt I manage, but she seems busy with the mini cakes.

I swallow and rack my brain for something to say. I can’t digest the revelation. I also know nothing about Corm’s search for his real father. Or that his father wasn’t his father.

“Dorothy, Corm is a very private man.”And he certainly doesn’t open up in front of me.

“He is, very much, but I’d hoped…” She wipes the corners of her mouth. “So what are you planning to do now you’ve retired?”

Whiplash anyone? Let’s talk about Corm’s father or Corm some more. Did she come to find out about Corm, and when she got nothing from me she’s just moving on to the next topic?

And yet, I don’t think my mother has ever spent this much time alone with me, or asked about my plans.

“I-I don’t quite know yet.”

“It doesn’t matter; take your time to figure it out. I always thought that staying home with kids was the way to go. And it was for a while, but something was missing. So I took classes and started playing the markets. It’s rewarding, not only financially, and I can still play housewife.” She laughs.

“Wow, how did you choose the class? Did you want to trade before you got married?”

“No, I went to university to find a husband. What I found was trouble in the form of Connor Quinn. He was a daredevil, and I was so impressionable.” She looks beyond me, her eyes glistening. Her entire countenance softens as she talks about her late husband. So much love. “I miss him.” She sighs.

“He was a great husband and a wonderful father.” She shakes her head. “Where were we? Yes, my classes. I just went to the local college and signed up for several classes, from art to finance. Turns out I’m not artistically gifted.” She winks.

“Maybe I should look at colleges. I feel kind of lost.” What is it with the Quinns and my need for honesty? Goddammit.

My cheeks go aflame. I close my eyes, and this time I turn my face to the sun.

“But of course you do. You started working when you were too young. I don’t know you, Saar, but I can imagine you had to take care of yourself way before it was normal for your peers. I’m sure taking a bit of a time now to figure things out is exactly what you need. Enjoy it. Lean into it.”

We continue chatting for another two hours. The words and laughs flow effortlessly with this woman, and as I walk her to the front door, I regret that she isn’t my real mother-in-law.

“Can I invite you for a proper high tea? I’m organizing one at the end of the month. It’s a blind charity date?”

“A blind charity date?”

“Something I came up with. I host a tea, each lady suggests a charity of her choice, and at the end of the event, we draw the winner and pull out our checkbooks.”

“I’d like that. I’ll be happy to come.” If I’m still faking it with Corm. The thought depresses me.

“Don’t tell Corm I came. He likes to do things on his own timeline. I’m sure he’ll bring you over and introduce you soon.”

I force my lips to stretch into a smile. “It’s going to be our secret. No matter what, I’m so happy I met you, Dorothy.”

“What do you mean no matter what?” She frowns.

Oh, shit. “I meant no matter when he introduces us…” I’m becoming quite proficient at lying.

“Hopefully soon. In the meantime, we stay in touch.” She pulls me into a hug.

God, I only just met her, and I’m going to miss her.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea, babe.” Celeste shrugs on the screen of my phone.

I look at the two dresses on my bed. The sequined black one would hug my body like a second skin. It’s a glittery variation on the little black dress, classic with a bit of flare.

The deep red one is more daring, exuding sophistication and sensuality. Its sleek, halter neckline elegantly wraps around the neck, leaving the shoulders bare. The bodice is fitted and the skirt flows to the ground. A thigh-high slit on one side reveals a glimpse of my leg, adding a bold touch to the classic design.

“Did Cal tell you to talk me out of it?” I sigh.