“You probably don’t want to deal with the tipping expected around here.”
I looked at the tray.
“The champagne is complimentary.”
Vanessa laughed.
“Even better.”
She lifted her glass toward me.
“Free has always suited your budget.”
It wasn’t said with anger.
That would have been easier.
Vanessa said it casually.
As if my supposed failure were simply a fact everyone had accepted years ago.
We continued toward reception.
Behind the desk stood a young woman in a perfectly tailored uniform.
Her brass name badge read:
JESSICA.
Mom straightened immediately.
I knew that posture.
She was preparing to request upgrades, special treatment, and probably a late checkout before Jessica even had the chance to greet her.
Vanessa stood beside her, still holding her champagne.
Both of them looked entirely comfortable.
Entirely certain of their place in the world.
And entirely certain of mine.
I stayed several steps behind them.
Quiet.
