Page 37

“I could’ve been dead for all you know.”

But you’re not, because you’re complaining on the phone.

“Did you need something, Marilyn?”

“Yes, I wanted to ask if everything is okay for tomorrow.”

I stop applying my lipstick, the Coralberry gloss filling only one side of my upper lip. “Yes, why?”

Please don’t throw another fit asking why you can’t come.

“Just checking. I want Chase’s day to be perfect. Do you have your dress ready?”

“Yes…”

This would be a normal conversation between any mother and daughter, but for me, it’s a WTF moment.

“Who are you going with?” she asks.

“I’m going alone. I’m in the wedding party, and I get to escort Felix in.”

“That’s one of the kids Chase hangs around with, right?”

Jesus. And she wonders why she’s not invited.

“Felix is his child, my nephew, and your grandchild, Marilyn. Look, I have to go?—”

“You shouldn’t be going alone to a wedding. Your followers will probably look down upon that. Bougie Girl shouldn’t be dateless like an old maid.”

As always, her missile finds a landing spot and makes the heat explode in my chest.

“What?” I sputter. “I just want to celebrate Lauren and Chase’s union and happiness. I’m not interested in men right now, like I told you the other day. I’m concentrating on my career and developing a business plan to market it better.”

“And you think you’re going to do that by going to a high-profile event alone when you’re supposed to be influencing young women? Do you think they’ll envy you if you don’t even have a man by your side?”

“Marilyn, I don’t want anyone to envy me. I want to show them where to find good things, affordable or not, so they can live their best life. You know, I really don’t have time?—”

My mother’s exasperated breath fills the line. “Stop being prideful and call Mateo. He would be happy to escort you to the wedding.”

So that’s why she called.

“Uh…no. Wait, let me rephrase that. Hell no. I don’t even want to hear his name. I only went out with him the other day for closure, and look where that got me. I’m done.”

“He made a mistake, but he’s New York’s most eligible bachelor. He’s like Derek Jeter used to be, only more famous and better looking. Think of all the photos you can post on Instagram. When you’re with him, you’re the envy of every girl.”

And miserable like no other.

“No, thanks. I’m good, and he’s about to be a father. Now I have to go because I have to meet the bridal party.”

“I’m not finished with you?—”

But I’m done with you.

I lean on the one thing I know will get her off the phone now. “Why don’t I send you and Eddha a little something so you can go to the Ferragamo store before you head out to the Hamptons? You can buy yourself something pretty you can show off.”

“That would be lovely.”

“Consider it done. I’ll call you soon, Marilyn.”