“Yes, I am seeing someone.”
The words are out of my mouth before I even realize I’m about to tell a lie. She doesn’t live here. She’ll never know.
“Really? Wow. Does Mom know about this? Because she didn’t mention it.”
I hate myself for lying because it shouldn’t matter whether or not I have a boyfriend. In this day and age women should be able to say they’re single without feeling any shame. I’m accomplished and ambitious, and I don’t care that I don’t have a man. And that is what I’d say if anyone else were sitting across from me, anyone but Olivia.
“I haven’t told her yet because it’s no one’s business but mine.”
“Who is he?” she asks.
I can tell that she doesn’t believe me.
“Why?” I ask dryly. “Do you want his number in case things don’t work out with your fiancé?”
She puts her hand on her water glass, and for a brief moment I think she’s going to toss it in my face. Instead, she takes a slow sip.
“I would appreciate it if you would check on your work commitments and see if you can get the time off for my wedding.”
There’s no point in prolonging our argument.
I mirror her by picking up my glass. “I’ll check my calendar.”
The truth is, I already know my schedule for the next two months, and her wedding isn’t on it. And it never will be.
“And Jordan,” she says sweetly. “Jack’s bringing his girlfriend Whitney to dinner on Thursday. Bring your new man. I’d love to meet him.”
“Great,” I say. “I will.”