“I know,” Natalie said with a laugh. She was filled with wonder and a bit of jealousy of Lulu’s calm handling of her grandmother. “I think your dress is beautiful. And I agree you’re definitely old enough for it. Four and ten months is super grown up.”

Natalie put Lulu down as a group of Noreen’s friends came crowding in, followed by Sarah. The sight of Sarah was like a balm for Natalie, giving her palpable, physical relief. More than anything she wanted to run over and hug her but was intercepted by two of Noreen’s new friends.

“You must be the famous Natalie! I watch you on TV all the time.”

“Such a treat to meet you. Your mother is constantly bragging about how successful you are and posting all your pieces on Facebook. She is so proud of you.”

Natalie watched her mom transform her gaze into a beatific, maternal glow. “Yes. And her father would be so proud, too. Makes me tear up just thinking about it.” Natalie did her best to stop herself from letting her disbelief show. Was it possible her mother, who had nothing but criticism to her face, boasted about her to her new friends?

Sarah shot Natalie a look that said Do Not Make a Scene, and Natalie did as ordered.

The real Noreen returned as soon as the women left. “You know I’d already met your father by the time I was your age,” she said to Natalie. “I had your sister when I was two years older than you. Aren’t you dating anyone, Natalie?”

You can dress her in all naturals, marry her to a nudist, but you can’t take the nosy out of Noreen.

“I’m so happy for you,” Natalie said.

Noreen frowned. “What is that supposed to mean? Is that some kind of insult?”

Natalie’s thoughts suddenly went to her phone. Had she left it in the car or was it in her bag? She really needed to check it.

“I think it means she’s happy for you, Mom,” Sarah translated, lunging forward and grabbing Natalie’s hand. “I think she needs to change. And I want a few minutes to catch up with her.”

Noreen looked unsure then said with a wave. “Fine, but hurry up. Natalie has already done her best to try to ruin my day. I will not accept any more of her chaos.”

“Curses, foiled again,” Natalie said under her breath and got an elbow in the ribs from Sarah.

With Lulu leading the way, they trooped upstairs and down a hall painted deep red and turquoise with a massive feather serving as wall art. “Is this just for the wedding, or is Mom really this into Native Americana?” Natalie said.