Allison Had Been Tricked Into Coming

Linda told her Daniel and Samantha knew.

She said:

“They want everyone to be adults about the past.”

Allison had even asked whether Samantha was comfortable.

Linda said yes.

Allison believed her.

Samantha’s anger shifted immediately.

Not disappeared.

Shifted.

She looked at Allison.

“You thought I invited you?”

Allison nodded.

“I would not have shown up otherwise.”

Samantha believed her.

Linda suddenly had no allies left.

Daniel Asked His Mother to Leave

Linda stared at him.

“You are not serious.”

“I am.”

“This is my son’s wedding.”

“Yes.”

“I paid for part of it.”

Daniel nodded.

“And now you’re leaving it.”

Linda looked toward Samantha.

“So this is what she wanted.”

Samantha answered:

“No.”

Linda ignored her.

“She wanted you to choose.”

Daniel’s voice became calmer.

“Mom, I am married.”

Linda stopped.

Daniel continued:

“I already chose.”

That sentence hit harder than shouting would have.