I wasn’t planning revenge.
I was simply finished.
Finished trying to purchase affection.
Finished apologizing for needing ordinary
kindness.
Finished pretending that being useful was the same thing as being loved.
I gently returned my plate to the buffet table.
The potatoes remained untouched.
Across the room, Aunt Ruth was watching me.
She didn’t speak.
She simply gave a small nod.
And I remembered her words.
*You can put it down anytime you want.*
I turned and walked toward the coat rack.
Camille hurried after me.
She caught my elbow before I reached the door.
“Olivia, whatever you’re thinking, don’t do it.”
I looked at her.
“Don’t make this evening about yourself,” she whispered.
For the first time all night, she seemed nervous.
I smiled slightly.
“I’m not going to cause a scene.”
Relief appeared on her face.
“Good. Thank you, Liv. You’re the best.”
