Page 105 of Our Broken Pieces
“Drugs are a horrible thing, Gigi. Now that I’ve been clean for a few years, I can see the disgusting void they left in my life. I’m so sorry I let them win.”
“So, what do you want to know?” I’m ready to get to the question-and-answer time.
“I saw you’re engaged. I’m happy for you.”
“I am. He’s a good man.”
“What does he do?”
“He works for his family company. He’ll be taking over the business soon.”
“I’m glad you found a provider.”
“I provide for myself.”
“Of course, I’m sorry. So, you work at a spa?”
“I own it.”
She reaches over, placing her hand on mine. I quickly retract my hand; her touch isn’t welcomed yet. “That’s amazing, Gigi.”
“Thanks.”
Audrey stands from the table. “If you’ll excuse me, I’m going to the ladies’ room.”
“Your friend seems nice.”
“She’s amazing. We’ve known each other for close to ten years now.”
“Tell me more about your fiance.”
“He’s tall, dark, and handsome.” I grin at the thought of him. “He’s established, patient, and giving.”
“He sounds wonderful. And he owns a business, too?”
Audrey returns to the table. I direct my attention back to my mother. “Well, not yet. The business will be handed over to him once we’re married.”
“Have you set a date yet?”
“December ninth.”
I nod my head. There’s an uncomfortable pause in the conversation. If this is a conversation. Her aura is throwing me off. I don’t feel peaceful around her. I’m ready to go. “Is there anything else you want to talk about?”
“I want to talk about everything, but I think we both know that won’t happen today.”
“Right.”
“Gigi, can we meet again like this?”
“Maybe. I can let you know. You can put your number in my phone.”
“Okay.” Her lips form a tight smile as she takes my phone. After she hands it back to me, Audrey and I stand from the table.
“Thank you for meeting with me today, Gigi. It’s been so good to see you’ve turned out okay. That you built a life and you’re happy. I hope to see you again.”
“Yeah, I hope you have a good rest of your day.” I give her a smile and walk to the door. I know she was probably expecting a hug or something, but I don’t have it in me.
Once we’re out on the sidewalk, Audrey loops her arm through mine. “You did really well in there, Gigi. I know that was hard.”
