Page 21 of Party Favors
“Amanda, what in the world are you wearing?”
Amanda’s stomach dropped. Nothing below her collarbones was visible on the screen, but her mom could clearly see the sheer fabric wrapping over Amanda’s shoulders. That tone of voice haunted Amanda.
“It’s a, uh …”
“Peignoir,” Wren added helpfully from the other side of the room. Amanda loved the way the word peignoir rolled over Wren’s lips.
“Whose voice was that? Where are you?” her mom asked.
“Mom, I told you a few days ago that I made other plans for New Year’s Eve.”
One of her mom’s flawlessly shaped eyebrows arched. “Well, of course I didn’t take you seriously. I told you that you needed to be there.”
Yes, and Amanda always did what she was told.
Not this time.
“I’m sorry. I’m not even in California. I won’t be there.”
Her mom sniffed. “I just don’t know what this means. What about Thatcher Aldridge?”
“I already sent him my regrets,” Amanda said.
“Amanda Brittany Ellis, how rude. What if he doesn’t have time to find another date? Oh no. What if he doesn’t come to the charity ball at all?”
“That would not be the end of the world. He’s a dick.”
“Watch your mouth, missy.” Her mom closed her eyes like she was trying to compose herself, and Amanda’s fingertips started to tingle. She never talked back or did anything to disappoint her parents. It was at once thrilling and horrifying.
After an extended beat, her mom opened her eyes. “When will you be home?”
“I fly back on New Year’s Day.”
“I can find you a flight home today. I’ll pay for it.”
“No.”
Her mom blinked. “No?”
Amanda was breathing hard. “No. I’ll be home in a few days. I’ll deal with the fallout and your displeasure then.”
“Very well.” Her mom stared at her for five seconds. Amanda counted in her head, waiting for the ball to drop.
It didn’t. Instead, the line went dead, and Amanda tossed her phone onto the couch cushion next to her.
“Oh my God.” She laughed and covered her mouth with her hand.
Wren was standing opposite of her by the mammoth stone fireplace. She grinned and took off her T-shirt.
Chapter Six
Wren wanted to cheer. She knew that it was difficult for Amanda to stand up to her mother, but she’d done it.
That called for some celebratory bad behavior.
Amanda’s mouth was open like she’d never seen a half-naked lady before.
Wren grinned and pointed out the large window. “Do you see those trees?”
