Page 36 of Frankie and the Fed

For you, always.

* * *

“You look amazing.” I congratulate Jennifer and kiss her cheek. “Did you do something?”

“Hyaluronic acid,” she whispers in my ear. “It’s the new hit now. But don’t tell anyone. I want everyone to think I simply look good for my age.”

“You look great for your age.” I squeeze her arms and examine her. Her slim figure is wrapped in a long wine-colored dress. It’s hard to believe she’s turning sixty-three. “Why does it say fifty-nine on the signs?”

She raises a shaped eyebrow. “Why do you think?”

“I brought you something.” I hand her the bag with Olive’s new brand logo, the orchid flower engraved in delicate gold.

“You know you don’t have to bring me gifts.” A blush rises on her cheeks.

“I designed the dress, especially for you,” Olive says with a smile. “It’s one of a kind.” Jennifer’s eyes light up.

We have known each other for over twenty years, and it still embarrasses Jennifer to receive gifts from me. The truth is I didn’t know what to bring. Then Olive offered to give her a new piece she designed, and I jumped at the opportunity. Olivia’s original and unique designs are a gift that any woman would want, and I’m happy to let Jennifer show one of them off. I do everything I can to make her proud of who I am today, much of it thanks to her.

We go inside, and I spot my parents. Fuck. I rush to team up with Ryan and Maya, using them as human shields.

“No dress fits me,” Maya complains. “Everything is ugly. When will you open a line for maternity clothes?” she asks, turning to Olive.

“Let me open the shop first. Then we’ll see. And you’re about to give birth. So you can buy from me soon.” Olive winks at Maya. “I’ll design you something special.”

Ryan snorts. “It will be great when I no longer have to go out in the middle of the night anymore to buy ice cream and corn.”

“Corn?” I raise an eyebrow.

“Don’t ask.” He laughs.

Maya punches his shoulder. “You have no right to complain, rich boy. You’re not carrying a bowling ball that contorts your entire body, and you will not be pushing a watermelon through your v—”

“Ahhhh...” I stop her before unpleasant images appear in front of my eyes. “Too much detail. I’m going to get a drink. Does anyone want anything?”

“Water for me,” Maya says, and I see how happy she is in her pregnancy.

“Can you get me some red wine, please?” Olive asks, and with a nod, I go to the bar and order.

“Ethan.”

I take a deep breath before turning to her. “Mom.” I glance around, and thankfully, Dad is nowhere to be seen. Seems he's keeping his distance from me. Excellent.

“I saw you came with Olivia.”

“Right.”

“Are you back together?”

I let out a laugh. “No. We’re just friends.”

She looks disappointed. “So there’s no one special in your life?”

I cringe. There was. But I almost caused her death. “No.” I take the whiskey I ordered and drink it in one gulp, welcoming the burning in my throat.

“Will you come to dinner? Tomorrow?”

“I can’t tomorrow,” I lie.