“Are you talking about marriage?”
She shrugged.
“Fine. Make a plan.” I felt so beaten down, I couldn’t even think for myself anymore.
38.Two Months Later
PENNY
I found out about Gavin’s marriage via text and spent the next month drifting through my life. I bought college stuff for Milo—sheets, a shower caddy, an alarm clock, etc.—and imagined Gavin and Briel’s wedding whenever I was alone: Briel in white, her belly swollen the way mine had been fifteen years ago; Gavin in black, exchanging vows in a French civil ceremony without a single friend or family member on his side.
A month later, I texted Lance.
Me: I’m taking Milo to MIT in three weeks if you want to join.
Lance: I’m slammed at work. I’m so sorry. But we need to talk before he leaves. I’d like us to have a family dinner on Sunday. Can we do that?
Me: Sure, just let me know when and where and we’ll be there.
Lance: Sounds good. I’ll keep you posted.
It’s amazing what a positive effect divorce can have on a couple’s ability to communicate clearly.
I texted Kiki and my mom next.
Me: We’re having a small party for Milo before we take him to MIT. I’ll keep you posted.
A minute later, Kiki was calling. “Hello?” I said.
“Penny. I need to tell you something.”
“What? Spit it out.”
“I told Douche-face—”
“No more names, Keeks; that’s Milo’s dad.”
“Listen, I promised I would let him tell you, but I don’t want you to be shocked.”
“What?!” I shouted impatiently.
“He was going to tell you and Milo over dinner. He has a girlfriend. I ran into them at the movies.”
“Really?” I said quietly.
“Yes, a doctor. She’s one of his clients.”
“Is she pretty?”
Kiki paused for too long. “Never mind,” I said. “Good for him.”
“I’m sorry, Penny. I told him to just tell you over the phone, that you don’t like being put into uncomfortable situations.”
“You’re right, Keeks; thank you. I’m going to call him now.”
“Don’t tell him—”
“It doesn’t matter anymore anyway.”
