Page 59 of The Star in Room 7

“You’re not getting married anytime soon. I know. I heard you. But what if it gets more serious, Nathanial? What if you do want to marry him?”

“I’ll figure it out if and when it happens.”

“He’ll break your heart.” She cups my cheek. “I don’t want anyone breaking my baby’s heart.”

“I’m not a baby, Mom.”

“You’ll always be my baby.”

“And you’ll always be a mama bear.” I kiss her forehead.

“Damn right.”

I smile. “I love you, Mom, but really, try not to worry. I know what I’m doing.”

“Do you?”

“Yes.”

She retrieves the fork and shuffles along to another weed. “Where did you meet him?”

“Around.” My family don’t know about Halo House, for obvious reasons.

“Is he a client?”

“No! I’m a professional.”

“Hmm.”

“What’s that meant to mean?”

“Nothing.”

“I have never fooled around with a client.” Unless you count an incredibly dull round of golf.

I hope that one day Zach is successful enough to afford protection from a company like mine. I really hope he doesn’t quit acting. His film might not have been my thing, but his performance was earnest and nuanced. If he were given better material, he’d be simply stunning. I could even see him winning an Oscar one day, when he’s had time to mature as an actor.

“Then why won’t you tell me where you met?” Mom asks.

“Because he’s a⁠—”

“Private person.” She does air quotes and rolls her eyes. “You’re playing with fire.”

“Maybe, but that’s my choice.”

She sighs heavily. “Yes, I suppose it is.”

I put my arm around her shoulders and give her a quick squeeze-hug. “Tell me what’s new with you and Dad.”

“Nothing, really. We’ve got the kids for a week, but they’re no bother.”

“They’re good kids.”

She stares at me.

“Oh, no. Don’t give me that stare, Mom.”

“What stare?”