Page 130 of Out of the Gold

I sip my Cosmo, the only thing with any taste. “It was, in a sense. Of course, shooting over in Italy is much different from what I do here in the City.” I chuckle.

“I’ve enjoyed several trips to Italy. Angie and I are thinking of going there for our honeymoon.”

“Oh, you’ll really enjoy it there. It’s very romantic. Florence has the most amazing vibe and gorgeous countryside. There are so many bridges there.” I sigh.

“I agree,” King says. “And I loved the Lake Como region. But my favorite place was the Amalfi Coast. Did you get to Positano?”

I choke on my last sip of my Cosmo. “Yes.” I wheeze. “I went there with a bunch of people from the set. It’s nice.”

“I can’t eat another bite.” Angie lays her fork on her plate. “I’ve read about a place in the Amalfi Coast called Ravello.” She leans her head on King’s shoulder. “It’s supposed to be one of the most romantic towns in the whole world.”

I push away from the table. “Please excuse me. I need to use the restroom.” Without looking back, I seek the only viable escape.

I head to the sinks, turning on the cold water. Fight the memories. Trying to regulate my breathing, I cup my hands and catch the water. The bathroom door opens, but I ignore it as water splashes over my face.

“I’m so sorry.”

I tense at Angie’s words, which shred me from the inside. As water drips into the sink, I tamp down my tumultuous feelings. “I’m fine.” My voice sounds strangled to my own ears.

She tears off a couple of pieces of paper towels and offers them to me, which I put over my wet face. When I can’t hide anymore, I crumple the paper and walk over to the garbage can.

“Have you talked with anyone about what happened?”

“Nothing happened. Chase was exposed as a fraud and a user. Amovie star.” I keep my eyes averted from her, studying my manicure instead.

“I’m so sorry he broke your heart. But, please, don’t close up. Take it from me. I know what I’m talking about. I owe everything to your brother, who brought me out of the hibernation I had consigned myself to after I lost my first husband.”

“Thank you for your kind words. I’ll be fine.”

“You’ll survive your broken heart. It’ll mend. You’ll find your real smile again.” She steps closer to me, placing her hand on my shoulder. “You’re going to be my sister, and I want to let you know I’m here for you.”

“Angie,” I say, turning my face away from the woman. “I just can’t.”

“I understand.” She worms her arm through mine. “Come on. Raise your gorgeous head up and let’s go back to our table. Dessert awaits.”

I force a reluctant chuckle. “I thought you were full?”

“Never too full for something sweet.” She gives me a sideways glance. “Plus, we have to celebrate your birthday.”

Her words jolt my system. Explains all the calls I sent to voicemail today. “It is, isn’t it?”

“You only turn twenty-five once!”

As we walk back to our seats, I bury my feelings over Chase once again. Yet, not even a family birthday celebration can ease this heartache.

Someday I’ll smile again. But today’s not the day.

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