“I actually think this one is much better. It hugs your body better and gives elegant. It will look really nice when you stand on that stage and collect your award.”
I smile over at Ms. Rose. When I asked her earlier which dress I should wear out of the two I bought, she told me this one.
Mother chuckles. “So you will listen to the nanny and not the person who has actually been to black-tie events?”
Ms. Rose cuts her eyes to my mother before turning back to me and I can tell she is not a fan of Evelyn. In all honesty, Evelyn is a lot to swallow. Although I will admit, she’s been a lot more pleasant since being here. I don’t know if she’s just playing nice since she has nowhere else to go, or maybe she too is trying to form a relationship.
I glance down at my gold watch.
“Oh, I have to go.” I plant kisses all over Noah’s face as he giggles and tries to give me open-mouth kisses.
“Hand me my chunky man.” Ms. Rose takes Noah out of my arms. “You look stunning, sweet pea. No matter what happens, you are an amazing designer.” She places a kiss on my cheek that warms my heart.
I watch as she carries my happy seven-month-old baby out of the room.
“How much do you trust that woman?” Evelyn asks, drawing my attention.
Rolling my eyes, I grab my clutch off the bed. The bag is just big enough to fit my phone, my lip combo, and some mints.
“Ms. Rose is a sweetheart,” I say, making my way out of my room and toward the front where I know Jake is waiting for me.
“That’s what you think. It’s not smart to have too many lonely women around your husband. You need to let her go.” I swing around to face my mother at the door. She followed me all the way out of my room and to the front door.
Glaring at her, I say. “Do you really want to have that conversation with me?”
Her eyes widen and her mouth drops.
I let out a deep breath. I was being a bitch because I was in a bad mood. Although I was not worried about Ms. Rose taking Nico, I know my mother was just trying to help me in her own way.
“I know you’re only trying to help, but right now isn’t the time.”
“Sorry.” She dips her head. “You’re right. I was out of line.”
Shaking my head, I reply. “It’s okay. Good night.” I turn to leave but stop when she calls my name. I turn back to face my mother.
She walks over and pushes one side of my hair behind my ear. “Wear one side back, it will better accentuate your beautiful face.”
Jeez, it’s sad that I’ve realized that in all my twenty-seven years, this is the first time my mother has ever told me I was beautiful. And what’s worse is the way the simple words warmed my heart. It fed on those words like it was deprived.
I smile. “Thank you.” The words are sincere.
“Good luck with your award tonight.”
I dip my chin before turning and walking out the door.
Jake is standing at the back of my G-Wagon with the door open.
“You look gorgeous, Boss Lady.”
“Thank you, Jake.” Lifting the hem of my skirt, I get into the backseat. I’m immediately struck by the enormous bouquet of red roses. I pull the card out of the flowers as Jake shuts my door.
Good luck tonight, my love. Although I know you won’t need it.
Love Always,
N. Basille
Although the flowers are nice and thoughtful, I really wish he were here with me.
