My mom saw the look in my eyes and came to me, her expression softening with quiet sympathy. She reached out, patting my arm.
"I'm sorry this is all happening," she said gently.
"No. It's my fault. If Leonard hadn't started this whole thing because of me, it wouldn't have been a big deal."
She looked tired, I placed my hand over hers.
"I'm not going to think about that."
She raised her eyes to me, a little startled by my shift in tone.
"Leanna, a friend of mine from college—she's getting married."
"Oh, that's good news," my mom said, smiling lightly. I could tell she didn't quite remember Leanna; it had been so long ago. But that didn't matter.
"Yes," I said with a small nod. "And tonight, she asked me out for a girl's night. So, I won't be here for dinner. I was actually just going upstairs to get ready."
Her eyes lit up immediately. "That's such great news. I'm so happy you're making friends and going out. It'll be good for you."
"Yeah," I said softly. "I know."
