16
DINNER WITH NEW FRIENDS
CLAUDIA
Moments before John’s arrival.
After John left, I helped Michael set the table early, so that I could find a nice dress to wear for dinner. I wanted to look my best. Michael came in and stood at the kitchen entrance as I set the china out.
“What?” I asked as I set the last dish down.
He smiled. “I just wanted to make sure you’re okay.”
“I’m fine, Michael,” I said with a slight frown. Sometimes, he made me feel like such a kid. God, I’m almost eighteen.
“You know I worry about you,” Michael said. “I’m sorry I had to be tough on you.” I realized what he was getting at. “I know how much you wanted to go to that party, but—”
“Michael, please. Not right now,” I said. “Can we just enjoy this evening without talking about that?”
The party didn’t even m
