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"What was that about?" Tessa asked the moment Mary Elizabeth hung up the phone.
"That was Everett," Mary Elizabeth said needlessly, "inviting us to Isabel's showcase. He said he knew getting airfare at the last minute could be problematic, so he's sending his jet to pick up anyone who'd like to go."
"Wow. Really?" She'd hated to miss Isabel's first New York City art show, but given everything that had happened with Kirk, she hadn't been in the mood to deal with booking a flight and fighting the holiday crowds.
Mary Elizabeth picked up her cell phone, and Tessa watched as she typed out a message. A second later, her phone dinged with Everett's invitation and details.
"Does this mean things between them are serious?" Tessa asked.
"I couldn't tell you. I've barely spoken to her since they went to New York. She's texted to say she's painting and exploring the city, but she hasn't mentioned how things are going with them and…I haven't asked."
"That's not like you," Tessa teased. "Why not?"
Mary Elizabeth reached up and ran her fingertips over the diamond cross at her neck.
"Any time I approve of something, that girl runs in the opposite direction. This time? I'm praying for God's hand over my mouth and a man who loves my daughter enough to support her during those times when she isn't able to support herself."
"Ouch."
"I know. It's awful to hear myself say it but it's true. I pray this showcase works out for her. That Everett works out for her."
"Well, as I'm proof, there are worse things than being alone, MeMe. Trust me."
"But you're not alone. You have the Babes…and Bruce?"
Just the mention of his name sent a shiver through her. "I do not have Bruce."
"He seemed awfully protective of you that night."
"His whole job is to protect and serve."
"This was different and you know it. Are you sure—"
"Yes! I'm sure. I'm quite sure I'll never be able to show my face to him again because I'm so embarrassed."
"Oh, Tessa."
"I mean it. It's bad enough that you girls know what happened, but Brucewitnessed it."
"So? Maybe it was an eye opener for him, too?"
"How?" Tessa asked.
Mary Elizabeth grinned. "Tessa, for such a worldly woman, you’re blinded when it comes to Bruce. The man still loves you. He’s never stopped.”
The statement reminded Tessa of Bruce’s words that night, leaving her stomach in knots. “That’s…hard to believe.”
“It shouldn’t be.”
Tessa shoved her fingers through her short hair and then smoothed it down. “How is that possible? After all these years?”
“It’s possible for the same reason you still love him,” Mary Elizabeth said.
“I don’t—”
“You do. Oh, Tessa, saying you don’t love that man is like saying Isabel isn’t an artist. Who’s lying to themselves about reality now?”
