I’m almost sorry for Dad, except, for the first time, I have my own champion. I love it. Rob always agreed with my parents. He never defended me as Levi did. I’m so grateful, I’m positive it shows all over my face.
My father avoids making eye contact with Mom when he responds. “Well, Levi, certainly Lindsey will be an asset to this organization. I think, however, what Helene means to say is she’s capable of more.” Dad’s strategic answer angers me.
Levi’s praise renewed my spirit. I’m stronger now than I’ve been all day. “More what, Dad? Making more money? Having a fancy office or title? Was writing for a magazine better than advocating for neglected and abused children? That job paid so little, it was practically an internship. We all have enough money. For the first time, I’ll be making a difference in people’s lives. Maybe I’ll start my own foundation after I’ve learned from this experience, or write a book.”
Mom’s radar hones in on my newfound self-assurance and she torpedoes me. “Lindsey, these cases must take years to resolve. Won’t you end up devastating a child or two when you inevitably return to New York? Have you even consulted with Rob about this decision? Obviously, Levi’s got your ear. Why do you deny the rest of us our opinion?”
On the heels of her admonishment, Levi intercedes. “I never tell Lindsey what to do. I respect her and understand she alone lives with the consequences of her choices.”
As soon as Levi finishes, I curtly respond to my mother’s remarks. “If I return to New York, I can consult on cases and fly back to appear in court. As for Rob, I’ve no need to discuss my life with him now. He and I are not married. We’re not even together.”
“Considering the flowers he sent, he’s not aware you’ve made a definitive decision about your relationship. Is he aware of your ‘friendship’ with Levi?”
I blanch from shame. I’ve never mentioned Levi precisely because of my conflicted emotions. I’m sinking, without a response. Fortunately, Levi pipes up.
“Excuse me, I think I’ll excuse myself from the table. My back could use a stretch and I’ve no wish to cause Lindsey, or either of you, further discomfort. Please take your time to order dessert or coffee. Lindsey, I’ll wait for you in the lounge area. Don’t rush.” He squeezes my knee under the table to emphasize his point before he stands. “Mr. Hilliard, it was a pleasure meeting you. Mrs. Hilliard, have a safe return to New York.” Before any of us respond, Levi departs.
My face is aflame as I turn on my mother. “I can’t believe your behavior tonight, Mom. You humiliated me. Why’d you question him about his mother and education, and provoke him with your insinuations about our relationship?”
Then, sick of my father’s passivity, I turn on him, too. “Dad, you sat there, as always, letting her run roughshod over me. This, this”—I say, wildly waving my hand back and forth among the three of us—“is a big reason why I don’t miss New York. Removing myself from your constant criticisms has been freeing. It’s thrilling to make decisions for myself without considering your opinions. For God’s sake, you act like my new interest is a drug habit or something.”
“Sh, we’re in public.” Mom cuts me off. “Obviously you’ve been spending too much time on the beach to remember how polite society behaves.” She leans toward me. “I’m not stupid, Lindsey. You think I can’t appreciate what you see in Levi? You’re letting your hormones dictate important choices. If you want to have a little romp with a handsome man, then do it. But don’t mess up your entire life over him. He has nothing in common with you. He’s not from a decent family, he’s not formally educated, and he’s not connected to anything more than himself. One of you will tire of the other when those differences become aggravating instead of romantic. Meanwhile, you’ll lose Rob in the process and regret it later.”
“Dad, do you share Mom’s opinion?”
My father is ashen, caught between the two women in his life. “I don’t know, honey. I don’t recognize your defiant attitude tonight. Levi’s a decent young man, certainly self-made, which I can respect. However, if you’re basing life-altering decisions on an infatuation, then I’d advise you to reconsider.” That’s my dad—always the diplomat, king of the evasive response.
Fortunately, he has no intention of prolonging the drama, so he asks the waiter for the check. We’re all surprised to discover Levi’s already taken care of the bill. I push back from the table and place my napkin in front of me. Struggling not to cry, I keep my eyes on my napkin while speaking.