Kate wondered about Blaire’s mother. When they were in college, she’d asked Blaire if she was going to try and find her, but Blaire had said she wanted nothing to do with Shaina. “Do you know what happened to her mother?”

Enid nodded. “She died when Blaire was in college. Drug overdose. She still had Blaire’s father listed as her next of kin.”

Kate digested this news. Why hadn’t Blaire ever told her?

“What do the doctors here say? What’s her state of mind?”

“She’s had what they call a split. She’s delusional. A complete break with reality. She thinks she’s a big star and that her husband is Seth Ackerman.”

Kate’s eyes widened. “I don’t know what to say to her.”

Enid looked at Kate. “It doesn’t matter. Just be kind and follow her lead. Tell her you loved her in her latest movie. Just let her believe that you’re still her friend. It won’t matter what you say. Only that you came.”

Kate looked at Enid, the woman she’d believed to be a wicked stepmother all these years, and felt a keen sadness for her and for Blaire. Maybe she wasn’t the kind of mother Blaire yearned for, but she had cared for her stepdaughter. And Blaire hadn’t been able to see it. She’d been so scarred by Shaina’s leaving that she saw everything through a distorted lens.

Kate got up and walked to the nurse’s station outside the locked door.

“Ms. Barrington is in the last room at the end of the hall,” the woman told Kate.

She felt her heart skip as the door was buzzed open and she walked through. She took her time walking down the hallway, taking deep breaths and trying to stay calm. When she reached the end of the hallway, the door was shut. She knocked.

“Who is it?” The voice was guarded.

“Kate. It’s Kate.” Her voice trembled.

“Katie! I’ve been waiting for you,” Blaire answered, her voice happy. The door swung open, and Kate walked in.

Acknowledgments

There are so many wonderful people without whom this book would not have become a reality. First and foremost, to our dear friend and agent, Bernadette Baker-Baughman, thank you for supporting and encouraging us every step of the way. You are our touchstone and center, and we’re so lucky to work with you. Heartfelt thanks to Victoria Sanders for always cheering us on and lending your wise counsel. And a big thank-you to Jessica Spivey for your support.