I was also beginning to understand something important.
Vanessa didn’t simply want my husband.
She wanted me to know she believed she could take him.
She wanted me frightened, jealous, and humiliated.
She wanted me to become the insecure wife in the story she was telling herself.
I decided I wouldn’t give her that satisfaction.
Chapter Three: The Invitation That Changed Everything
The barbecue invitation arrived on a Thursday afternoon.
Irvin was checking his email at the kitchen table when his phone buzzed.
He glanced at the screen, then looked at me.
“Rachel, you’re going to want to see this.”
He handed me the phone.
It was a message from Vanessa.
I’m having a neighborhood barbecue on Saturday. I’d love for you to come. Just you, though. I think we should have an honest conversation without Rachel hovering over us.
I read it twice.
Then I looked up.
“Hovering?”
Irvin rubbed his forehead.
