Page 28 of Waiting for Acceptance
“Look at you and your big city nickname knowledge. You should go on Jeopardy.”
“They won’t take me. Said it wouldn’t be fair to the other contestants.” I belly laugh and even though talking to Gran always lifts my spirits, it also immediately makes them fall.
“I miss you, Gran. Pops too.” I roll my head, my eyes landing on my favorite photo in my apartment.
“We miss you too, sweetheart. You know we’re always here when you have time to visit.”
“Yeah. Maybe soon.” I’m sure she doesn’t believe that. I wouldn’t believe me either. It’s been far too long since I’ve been back to see them.
“Well, dinner is just about ready so let me hang up this phone. I just wanted to check on you.”
“Wait wait wait. What’s for dinner tonight?” I ask, my mouth already watering in anticipation.
“Chicken and dumplings, cornbread, and veggies.” I hold my hand to my chest and let out a dramatic, agonized groan.
“You’re killing me, Gran. How am I supposed to eat my takeout and enjoy it now?”
“Honey, I don’t know how anyone ever enjoys that mess.” I can hear the judgment in her voice and laugh.
“Talk soon. I love you.”
“Love you too, bud.” I click the red button and drop my phone in my lap, staring at the apartment I couldn’t wait to return to and wondering why I missed it so much. It’s quiet and lonely, two things I despise about my parents' home.
Maybe I’ll get a house plant.
I’d say a cat, but after seeing Lauren’s arms after she took ownership of one, I think I’ll pass on having anything living.
Not like I’d have the time to care for a cat in New York, anyway.
Let’s be honest. A ficus and a cat both have an equal chance of making it out alive with me.
Of all the things my father does that makes me hate him, setting me up to take Jessica Vanderbilt to these events is near the top of the list. After the last time I was in town and saw her and this, she’s definitely going to get her signals crossed.
“Jessica, you look lovely.” I force the words out as I give her a tight smile and she beams back at me.
“You don’t look too bad yourself, Fitz.” Her long, blonde hair is pulled back in a bun that looks so tight it’s givingmea headache. She has a small clutch in one hand andmein the other. I twist my neck and try to loosen my bowtie, my skin itching to be released from her grip. We make our way around the room, speaking with every important person on my father’s list, and catching adoring glances from both of our mothers. I feel like my skin is on fire when Jessica leans her head on my shoulder.
“Mr. Fitzgerald, Ms. Vanderbilt, over here.” I look over and before I can object Jessica puts on her best model face, reaching up to place her hands on my chest and the camera flashes.
“I’d say we’re pretty good together,” she whispers as we continue making our way through the crowd.
“You certainly play the part well.” Her face scrunches but I try to ignore it.
We continue walking through the venue as she talks.“It doesn’t have to be apart, you know. We could try this thing for real. I mean our parents would be ecstatic and we have fun together.” She stops and looks up at me, causing me to exhale in frustration. “You do like me, don’t you Fitz?” There are very few times I’ll ever wonder why I’m not of high enough importance to have a hit out on me because now would be an excellent time for such a distraction. I open my mouth to speak, but Frank shows up and interjects himself at the perfect moment.
“There you are. There’s someone your father wants you to speak with.”
“Excuse me,” I politely remove myself from the trap that is Jessica Vanderbilt and nod at Frank to lead the way.
“Who is it?” I ask, preparing myself to turn on the charm.
“Clay Holmes.” I stop walking and look at Frank.
“Like the pitcher for the fuckingYankees, Clay Holmes?”
“Yes. That’s the one.”
“Why the hell is he at this event?” I question, looking around the room.
