“That doesn’t close the subject forever. She’s older now and wants to know more about your choice to have a baby on your own.”

“So she can judge me and fault my decision like you did?”

It was too late to take back the words. They’d already been uttered. She gave a tiny jerk, and I knew she remembered that night. I’d announced my plan to get pregnant, and she’d stared at me in horror, then begged me not to go through with it. I’d come to the choice after a long, hard decision, and hearing my mother list all the reasons it was a terrible idea had shaken my foundation. “I had my reservations for a good reason,” she said with a lifted chin. “Was it wrong for me to wish you’d fall in love and get married? You set these goals, and if they don’t work out on time, you lose patience.”

“I didn’t want my ticking biological clock to color my idea of a relationship,” I shot back hotly. “Too many women want to have a child so badly, they marry the wrong guy because they refuse to wait any longer. I could have ended up divorced and miserable. What’s wrong with taking my fate in my own hands?”

“Nothing. Allegra was worth it. I’m just saying your need to control all aspects of your life is difficult on the ones who love you.” Her shoulders slumped as if the fight had drained out. “If you keep rushing to douse every fire that happens at the company, you’ll never end up with a solid team to back you up.”

“And if they fail? I could lose a client and a lot of money.”

“There will be other clients and a lesson learned. Sometimes, people have to fail to get stronger. Have you won every account you pitched?”

“Of course not.”

“Why should you put these expectations on everyone else? Kate and Layla are capable, but I’m sure you insist on being involved. I wanted us to take this trip so we could be closer. Get a fresh slate and return home strong. Allegra needs you, Frannie. There’re some hard choices ahead of her, and a young girl can get lost.”

Annoyance flickered. “I will always take care of my daughter. She’s going through a tough age and isn’t comfortable talking to me. Didn’t I go through something like that?”

“Yes, but even if you didn’t want to talk, I made sure I was available. Allegra needs you to choose her. Just like you always wished with your dad.” I let the words sink in and she walked to the door. “Think about it. I’ll see you in the morning.”

She left.