“You’re absolutely welcome, honey.” She blows out a long breath. “And remember to keep living authentically and truthfully, even if your theory turns out to be right. Don’t get caught up in people’s toxic stories or let their narratives overshadow yours. Stay tight with your family and your divatantes. Even yourDivorcétantefollowers can help protect your reputation, integrity, and professionalism.”
“You’re right. Ahh, you’re so right.” I smile, feeling lighter.
The sound of paper rustling in the background grows closer. “And if things go sideways, there’s always legal action. But we’re not there yet, so enjoy every minute of this man who’s helped you believe in love again.”
And that’s exactly what I plan to do.
After finishing my makeup, I slip into my dress and send Linc a quick text with a picture of our initials carved into our tree. I tell him I love him and will see him soon.
Then I’m out the door.
The drive to Madison Manor is smooth, with the morning rush long gone. The sun seems like it’s shining brighter, the sky a perfect, clear blue. And then I find a parking space right away, too. Suddenly, it feels like talking to Savannah was exactly what I needed to slow down and enjoy every minute of loving Lincoln Bridges.
Maybe one day, it’ll be us dancing under the grand ballroom’s magical crystal chandelier.
When I walk into Madison Manor, though, I don’t hear the busy chatter of voices or loud power tools humming. No hammers tapping. Not even the soft whoosh of sweeping and painting. No, it’s dead silent.
My heart jackhammers against my ribs.
Slowly, I step inside, standing still, ears straining to hear anything. This scream queen willdefinitelynot call out, “Is anyone there?”
“Yeah, well, I don’t see how that’s any of your business, so you can see yourself out.”
Oh, shit.
Linc.
I inch farther inside through the foyer into the reception hall, my ears perked toward his voice in the study. But who’s he talking to?
A thunderous laugh rips through the hall, stealing the air from my chest.
“How many women do you think are lined up at my fucking door because they want to be the next Mrs. Julian Livingston III?”Oh, screw you, Julian.“Do you actually think Ebony would’ve given you a second glance if I hadn’t fucked up—”
“But you did.” Linc’s voice is tight, controlled, like he’s one wrong word from laying Julian out. “And for what? Some random ass?” He snickers.
That’s right,baby. Tell him.
There are a few slow, hard footsteps, but I’m too scared to move and make a noise to get closer to see what’s happening.
“You’re right.” There’s a coolness to Julian’s tone, like he’s trying to maintain his composure. “I’ll admit, it sort of took me off guard, hearing about you two.”
Hearing about us? How?
“Yeah, I’ll bet.”
“Mm-hmm… I mean, I’d heard about y’all back when she was at State. Had yourself a little fling, ended up begging on your hands and knees for her to choose you…” Julian huffs out a small, humorless laugh. “Couldn’t be me. But, uh, I’m just curious—did you think she wasactuallygoing to choose you when she had me?”
This mother—
“Fuck you!” Linc takes the words right out of my mouth, making me proud. “What, you scared that she was with you all those years, wishing she was with me?”
Julian barks out a raucous laugh and starts to say something, but I miss it when something moves behind me, and I almost jump out of my skin.
Luckily, it’s only Vincent.
“Hey, Linc is in there with Julian,” I explain sheepishly, still clutching my chest. Then I giggle. “I’m eavesdropping.”
We all are,he mouths, circling his finger in the air.
