“I think it’s going pretty well,” I said. “No one’s threatened to fire me yet.”
“Do you think it’s something you’ll want to continue?” Irene asked. “I’d imagine it’s hard to juggle a job like that and a family.”
“Mama,” Vance said, shaking his head. “No leading questions.”
Irene laughed. “Sorry. I’m nosy.”
“That’s one word for it,” Vance said.
“I saw some articles online,” Irene said. “Gossip sites. Photos of you and that contractor. And mentions of Mia’s school. Your address.”
My stomach sank. “You saw those?”
“A friend sent them to me, worried about Vance.” Irene’s expression was troubled. “Some of the information in those posts is very personal—things that shouldn’t be public. Has someone been following you?”
“We think so. Photos through my window. Someone watching the house.” I kept my voice low, not wanting the girls to hear. “The police say there’s nothing they can do unless there’s a direct threat.”
“Dear God. Vance, why didn’t you tell me?” Irene asked.
“I didn’t want you to worry. We’re being careful. But whoever’s doing this has access to a lot of information. Too much.”
Irene’s jaw tightened. “You think it’s someone from the production?”
“We’re not sure,” Vance said. “But some of the ‘accidents’ on the renovation—wrong orders, canceled deliveries—they all trace back to the same person. Kenzie. One of the producers.”
“Yes, I met her. Why would she do that?” Irene asked.
“We don’t know. But it feels personal.” I dried my hands, trying to steady myself. “We’re trying to figure it out—quietly.”
“Be careful, Lila. Please. Both of you.” Irene glanced toward the patio.
“Papa, come see my picture,” Margot called from the terrace.
Vance winked at me, setting his towel aside. “Be back in a moment. Mama, behave yourself.”
Irene threw up her hands, shooting me a sassy grin. “I always do.”
After Vance had slipped out to the terrace, Irene looked over at me, a serious expression in her eyes. “This has all been quite fast—you and Vance. And now Margot. I hope you’re taking care of yourself in all this.”
“I am. But the kids are our priority right now.”
Irene glanced toward the patio, where Vance had been convinced to model for a portrait. Both girls were bent over their tablets, drawing away. “Margot’s going to be tricky. I saw kids like her in my years as a teacher, and it won’t be easy.”
“Kids like what?” I asked.
“Kids who think no one wants them.”
“Then it’s our job to prove her wrong. And if there’s anything I know how to do, it’s make someone feel loved. I’ve loved Mia hard enough for two parents.”
Irene glanced back at the terrace, pensive. “I never dated when Vance was a child. I didn’t trust myself.”
“I’ve been the same way. Until now. But maybe it’s all meant to have unfolded like this. Mia and I are uniquely suited tolove Margot. We were both rejected by the one person who was supposed to love us—just as Margot has been.”
“I’m sorry for all three of you. Life can be so cruel.” Irene leaned against the stovetop, crossing her arms. “You know, I wonder sometimes if he only married Nicole because she was pregnant. If it hadn’t been for that, I don’t think they would have married. She was completely wrong for him. Obviously. Still, I’ve never seen him look at anyone the way he looks at you.”
“That’s nice to hear.”
“Mia seems quite attached to Vance already.”
