Page 62 of Lavish

“What?”

We did that sitcom thing where we looked at each other, then away, and I crossed my arms and shook my head.

Reese coughed awkwardly. “Okay… Come on, baby, I see someone we need to talk to.”

He dragged Laurene off, and I turned to Miles, but then I froze.

Jenese.

My worst fear had come to life. Jenese was with Gigi, laughing at something she said.

No.

She had no business being around my sister. Gigi didn’t know. She didn’t understand what kind of game she’d just stepped into.

What the fuck do I do?

I reached them just as Jenese was leaning in, tugging at the fabric of Gigi’s gown.

“Gigi.” I not so subtly snatched her by the arm, pulling her away from Jenese. The older woman raised a brow, and Gigi took her arm from me, looking at me like I was crazy.

“Who is this?” I said, not letting my eyes leave Jenese.

“Rena! This is Jenese,” Gigi chimed in, completely oblivious like she always was. “Did you know she’s wearing a Pam Griergown from the ’70s? It’s vintage—iconic.” Jenese was draped in an emerald green silk dress with her wild Afro swept up into a high ponytail.

Jenese’s smile widened, her eyes glinting with satisfaction as Gigi fawned over her before she glared at me. “Oh, darling, it’s nothing. A little gem from thepast, just like me.”

“Gigi, this isn’t someone you need to be getting close to.”

“Why?” Gigi looked at me like I was crazy. “You know her or something?”

Shit. No, no, no, I cursed in my mind. I’d slipped. I could feel Jenese’s eyes on me, that smug, knowing look creeping across her face.

“I don’t think we’ve met,” Jenese said, playing dumb.

“No, I just wanted to say—” I was scrambling for an answer, and Jenese just laughed.

“I’m new in town, just soaking up the atmosphere. I’m glad I ran intoGigihere. Apparently, she’s opening up a boutique? I know quite a few designers, and they’re always looking for a store with the right clothing and accessories?—”

“Boutique?” I glanced at Gigi.

“Yes! I got the idea last night. I’m opening up my own boutique.”

“You’re playing,” I said.

“Who said I’m playing?” She frowned at me. “Y’all always talkin’ about me not having a job. Not finishing college. I like clothes. I like shopping. I like money. It’s perfect for me.”

“Yes, why can’t she have a boutique?” Jenese asked. “She seems like a capable young woman.”

“Yeah, you right,” Gigi said, smiling at her and then glaring at me. “You never back me up.”

“I support everything you do,” I said.

“When?” She damn near snapped her neck as she looked at me sideways.

“It’s a shame, though, when family doesn’t support you, huh? Especially when you’re trying to make something of yourself.” Jenese looked pointedly at me. “Gigi’s got big plans, Serena. You should be proud of her.”

“I love how you’re all business, Jenese. You’re such a pro!Somepeople can learn from your professionalism.” She turned to me. “Can you imagine, Rena? Me? Taking over Rodeo Drive?”