Page 76 of Destined To Fall

“He is.”

“Your father is going?”

“Yup.”

“Wait, and she invited him to Thanksgiving too?”

“Winner, winner, chicken dinner.”

“Well, holy fuck.”

“Indeed.”

“Are you okay with this?”

There’s silence for a beat before he responds.

“I guess. I mean, it’s her house, her choice, so…”

“Yeah. This is big.”

“Yeah. It’s only been a few monthssincethey’ve been back in contact. It feels kinda quick, but if it’s what she wants... Why do I feel like you had something to do with this?”

“Me? How could I? And you know I don’t do drama, and this has soap opera written all over it.” I laugh, but it sounds forced.

“Does it ever.”

“I’m going to need updates.”

“If I live through it, you’ll have them.”

“You’re not really calling me during—”

“Shh, Jer. Tell me what’s happening onEarth Abides?” I whisper over the phone.

“Why are you all muffled and whispering?”

“No reason. Jeremy, tell me what’s going on.”

“I’m too busy concentrating on trying to hear you. I’m missing the damn show. Are you in a bathroom?”

“Ha, no…”

“Vivienne.”

“Fine, I’m working and can’t watch the damn episode, so I’m hiding in a freaking bathroom.”

“Wait, you’reonthe job?”

“Yes. Oh, no. Not like that. I’ve been in LA since Wednesday. It’s gala after photo op after VIP party. No sexing involved. I’ve never been so exhausted and bored in my life.”

“Oh. So why are you hiding in a bathroom?”

“My client is going through a very public divorce, and I’m the decoy or something. I’m not really clear on the particulars.Justhere to look good and, sadly, be photographed every ten minutes. I need some alone time, and Ineedto know what’s happening before I get sprung and have to go.”

“Gee, getting paid to party with the rich and famous. How taxing.” He jibes.

“Yeah, yeah. It’s all fun and games until someone ends up with their face onTMZ.”

---