Page 107 of A Moment for Us
“No, I always wanted someone other than Ray in that spot. He was horrible and rude. I couldn’t stand it.”
“He was definitely a shitty boss. Still, I’m surprised you wouldn’t want it. It would be a good raise.”
“Maybe. I don’t know.”
We park at what looks like an old warehouse that has been renovated. “If it happens, I’m going to suggest you,” Ronyelle says softly. “If you choose not to take it, then that’s one thing, but my not putting your name in isn’t the right decision.”
I reach over, taking her hand in mine. “You’re a good friend.”
“Oh, I know.”
We both laugh. “So, brunch?”
“Let’s brunch.”
We get inside where the girls are already seated. Everyone gives hugs and fawns over Ember, who is asleep in her mother’s arms. Throughout brunch, we laugh, talk about the current insanity of our lives, and then the topic turns to me.
“So, how are things with Josh?” Winnie asks.
“Fine.”
“Just fine?” Stella questions.
“No, we’re good. We’re really good.”
“I heard that Josh made a rather grand gesture the other day,” Jess says conspiratorially.
Stella gasps, grabbing for my hand, which I pull out of her reach. “He didn’t propose! We’ve been together a few weeks.”
“Months,” Ronyelle corrects. “You’ve been screwing each other’s—”
“Ears!” Stella says as she nudges her head toward Kinsley.
Kinsley shakes her head. “Like I don’t know what the end of that was going to be?”
Stella places her mimosa down. “You’re twelve. You shouldn’t.”
“I’ve had sex ed.”
“Attwelve?” Stella’s voice goes up an octave.
Jess laughs. “Would you rather her not know?”
“Yes. Yes, I would.”
“Well, I know about the birds and the bees. Also, three girls in my class have their periods already. I’m not that young.”
Stella’s eyes widen, and it looks like she’s going to cry. “I’m not ready for this.”
“Do you remember what you were doing at twelve?” Winnie unhelpfully adds.
Now Stella turns green before turning to her daughter. “You are not allowed to talk to boys. Look at boys. Even thinking about boys is a bad idea. Do you know how I know this?”
“You had a baby at eighteen out of wedlock and hid it?” Kinsley asks, and I have to bite my tongue to stop from laughing.
However, two people around us aren’t able to control themselves and do laugh.
“Well, yes, but that was my first time, and . . . we are not having this conversation other than to say that you should avoid boys. They are really horrible creatures.”
