Then Vanessa Said Something Worse

Vanessa sighed.

“Today is supposed to be about the family Michael and I are starting.”

Olivia’s expression changed.

“You’re starting?”

“You know what I mean.”

“No. Actually, I don’t.”

Vanessa realized the implication too late.

Olivia asked:

“Where exactly do I fit into this new family?”

“That’s not what I said.”

“You didn’t have to.”

Vanessa became frustrated.

“You turn everything into your mother.”

Olivia stared at her.

“My mother died.”

“I know!”

“Then stop acting like remembering her is competition.”

The Argument Became Physical

Not violent.

But tense.

Vanessa reached toward the necklace clasp.

Olivia immediately stepped back and caught Vanessa’s wrist before she touched it.

“Don’t.”

Vanessa pulled her hand away.

“Then take it off yourself.”

“No.”

Vanessa reached toward the pendant instead.

Olivia caught the necklace gently in one hand to protect it.

Vanessa’s fingers closed around the other side of the chain.

For several seconds, both women held the necklace.

Olivia’s voice changed.

“Let go.”

Vanessa answered:

“Then take it off.”

“Let. Go.”

One of the bridesmaids stood up.

“Vanessa, stop.”

Vanessa looked toward her.

That moment of distraction was enough for Olivia to pull the necklace safely back against herself.

Nothing broke.

But the entire room had seen what happened.