"Rose Barnes." His voice hardened behind me. "So I forgot one thing, and you're going to give me attitude? I've been traveling for work—for us, for this home. What's your problem? Can you grow up? You think you're still that eighteen-year-old girl from seven years ago?"
I didn't respond.
Seven years ago, Leo wouldn't even let me walk past a flower shop. He'd cover my nose with his hand, terrified I'd breathe in the pollen.
Behind me, he snatched the perfume bag and hurled it into the trash.
"I spoil you too much. Take it or leave it."
The next day, a crowd of Leo's friends showed up at the apartment for dinner. Trailing behind them was Adela Swanson.
Leo's expression tightened. A flicker of nerves crossed his face.
"Hey, sis!" Adela extended her hand with a bright smile. "I'm Adela. Remember me?"
A custom diamond ring glittered on her finger. On mine sat a plastic band.
My gaze dropped to her swollen belly, round and unmistakable beneath her dress. My hand refused to move.
Leo grabbed Adela's outstretched hand before the silence stretched too long. "Rose has been exhausted lately. Don't take it personally."
At dinner, the air conditioning blew directly onto my back and Adela's.