“I mean, it’s all just so personal and demeaning.”
“There is nothing demeaning about it,” Tessa said, coming deeper into the office, glancing around. “I know we have to work on Bat Mitzvah stuff today.”
That’swhat her excuse should have been. The Bat Mitzvah flowers.Dating app?What the heck was wrong with her?
“But can I postpone that?” Tessa asked, obviously unaware of Lacey’s mental meltdown.
“Sure. What’s up?”
She closed the door, surprising Lacey. “I want to spend some time with my mother,” she said. “I have to use this unexpected chance to be with her.”
Lacey nodded, then frowned at her choice of words. “Use it?”
“Yeah.” She leaned against the desk, not noticing that Lacey very slowly and casually lowered her laptop screen. Nothing incriminating was on it…she hoped. “My mom and I aren’t…” She huffed a laugh. “We’re not close like you and Viv.”
Lacey nodded, not really hearing a word. She’d sent that text! What if?—
“I mean, there’s no animosity,” Tessa continued. “But she and Kate have always been so much more…sympatico, you know? I was a Daddy’s girl.”
Lacey nodded, knowing how much Tessa adored her late father.
“And she’s here, and really struggling more than she’s letting on.”
“Because of Maggie?” Lacey guessed, forcing herself to pay attention to the conversation.
“Because of Maggie’s coldness, yes. And grief. The same heavy burden I’m carrying. I think she and I need some alone time to just talk about Dad and help each other heal.”
“Of course you do, Tess.” Lacey reached for her hand. “I think that’s a great idea.”
“Whoa, must have been a winner on that dating app.” She lifted Lacey’s hand. “Your palms are sweaty.”
“Are they?” She pulled her hand away and swiped it on her jean skirt. “I’m just hot in here and nervous about…the Bat Mitzvah.”
“Don’t be, but I do think it’s a good opportunity for you to have more ownership of a project. I’m here, of course, and I’ll do client interface. Also, I have a couple of new business prospects. But can you do the heavy lifting on this party? I made that list?—”
“Yes, of course I can, Tessa!” She might have been a little too enthusiastic—guilt again? “I know exactly what needs to be ordered and arranged and I’d love to handle the catering meeting. You just go and have fun with your mother.”
“Thanks, hon. I’m taking her on the boat for some sun and relaxation time.” Tessa sighed, smiling at her and holding her gaze for several heartbeats. “You’re an angel, you know that, Lace?”
Oh, heavens. She wasso notan angel.
“I just adore you, and Vivien better watch out because I want you as my daughter.”
Lacey tried to laugh, but more guilt crawled up her chest and nearly strangled her.
“Oh, Tess.” She reached over to hug her, hoping she didn’t get called out on the fact that her whole body was vibrating with nerves.
As she did, her phone buzzed. She jerked back to grab it and hide what it might say, knocking it to the floor.
“Whoops.” Tessa instantly was down, beating her to it. As she grabbed the phone, she glanced at the screen. “Oh, my, Roman Matteo? He’s your app guy?”
Lacey actually couldn’t see straight for a moment. “Do you…know him?”
“Why would I?”
Dizzy. She was downright dizzy and sweating. “Because he’s…an NFL player.”
“Really?” She squinted at the screen and Lacey thought she’d pass out. “Way to go, you.”
