“You can’t stop me, Mom!” Mary had screamed at me, defiant, angry. Resolved. “I’m an adult. This is my life and Elizabeth will be a part of it. She’s my role model. A doctor and everything! I’m taking the internship and her offer of housing. I can’t wait for my summer away from you. I’ve learned so much this year away at school. Most moms aren’t like you, not at all.”

I’d grabbed her wrist, yanked her toward me, ignoring the low growl from Cash. “I am your mother. Your only mother.”

“Let go of me. Now.” Mary jerked her arm free as the stupid dog showed his teeth. And then they were out the door, leaving me shaking with anger.

I was out of control of my own daughter. This was a conspiracy that started long ago. I’d been a fool.

Betsy had appeared upstairs next. I didn’t know if she heard Mary and me fighting, but she probably did. The air was thick with tension. Between me and the girls and between the two of them.

“Where do you think you’re going?” I demanded. “Are you hanging out with that woman, too?”

“School. Duh. And then a hike with Mary. At Point Park,” Betsy said, charming as always. “You’re not invited.”

I had smiled. I’m in control, they weren’t. “I’m busy anyway. But, if I break free, maybe I’ll come along. Surprise you girls.”

“Oh my God. Don’t you dare. Leave us alone,” she screamed and ran out the door.

And that’s the last time I ever saw Mary.

I never go to Point Park.

At least that’s the story I tell.

I check my phone. Sam hasn’t messaged me back. And then I remember, I blocked him. I’m in charge. Goodbye, stupid dog-loving Lyft driver.

Good riddance.

38

4:15 p.m.

The parking lot is almost full when I pull up to the high school. The ceremony doesn’t begin for another forty-five minutes, but like our children, we parents are overachievers. We all want to be in the front row, or as close to it as possible, to witness our little creations’ latest achievements.

It’s just so exciting, isn’t it? I know I can barely contain myself, but it’s not because of the long and boring ceremony. No, not that. I’m excited Kylie has made it into Mexico!! She crossed the border, can you believe that? That means somebody is really freaked out. She probably will end up staying down there. Meeting a rich snowbird, maybe from Canada, who falls madly in love with her and her physical assets, just as she’s falling in love with his yacht and the staff of gorgeous young men. One can only hope. But that is the life I wish for her. Out of my way.