She'd spent eight years surrounded by people who believed they knew what she needed.
Including me.
Kristen picked up the folded paper beside her plate.
"For what it's worth, I'm definitely not giving this toast."
A few nervous laughs moved through the room.
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Emma laughed too.
Just once.
"Thank you."
Kristen hesitated.
"And I'll stay out of the family pictures."
"You don't have to."
Kristen looked surprised.
Emma shook her head.
"Stay in one."
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"One?"
"You're Dad's wife. That makes you part of his life."
Emma looked at her.
"We don't have to pretend we're closer than we are."
Kristen nodded.
"I'd like that."
The DJ was still standing behind his booth.
He looked as though he wanted the floor to swallow him.
Finally, he cleared his throat.
"Emma..."
She turned.
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"What would you like me to do?"
The room went quiet again.
Tom stood on one side of the dance floor.
