And I had taught the people closest to me that my boundaries were temporary inconveniences they could negotiate away.
That lesson was about to change.
“Understood,” I said.
Harper relaxed immediately.
“Oh, good. I knew you’d be reasonable.”
Mark gave a relieved little laugh.
“Thanks, Ma.”
I walked into my bedroom.
Brenda was already hanging clothes in the closet.
My clothes had been pushed to one side.
A pink cosmetic bag sat on my dresser.
Harold’s shaving kit had been placed beside Thomas’s photograph.
That was the moment my last hesitation disappeared.
I moved the shaving kit away from the picture.
Then I opened the small black leather case beside my suitcase.
Inside was my master building access fob and the ownership registration card.
I slipped both into my purse.
Harper appeared in the doorway.
“Packing?”
“Taking care of something.”
She smiled.
“There’s a Marriott right down the boulevard. You should ask for an ocean-view room.”
I looked at her.
“I think that’s excellent advice.”
She laughed.
“See? This doesn’t have to be dramatic.”
I walked past her and toward the front door.
“Barbara,” Brenda called, “don’t forget the parking permit!”
I didn’t turn around.
And when the front door closed behind me, I heard Harper say something that would stay with me for a very long time.
