Claire had another man.
Claire stole my mother’s necklace.
Claire ran because guilty people run.
It was a simple story.
And simple stories are comfortable.
Then I saw her beside a Bellmere highway with two babies.
Suddenly—
nothing was simple.
I DROPPED VANESSA OFF TWENTY MINUTES LATER
She was shopping at a designer boutique.
Before closing the passenger door, she leaned back inside.
“You’re being weird.”
“I’m tired.”
“Because of Claire?”
I didn’t answer.
Vanessa rolled her eyes.
“She made her choices.”
Then:
“Don’t let guilt make you stupid.”
Guilt.
Interesting choice of word.
“Dinner tonight?”
“I have work.”
She sighed.
“Tomorrow?”
