I Was Seated Alone at My Son’s Wedding — Then a Stranger Said ‘Act Like You’re With Me’

“Now, shall we discuss what happens next?”

The dinner invitation came with an address I recognized as one of Denver’s most exclusive restaurants.

Apparently, when you suddenly need to impress someone with a net worth north of $500 million, “You don’t suggest meeting at Applebee’s.”

Theo picked me up in the Mercedes, looking devastatingly handsome in a navy suit that probably cost more than I’d spent on clothing in the past 5 years combined.

I’d chosen my best dress, a simple black number that Robert had always said made me look elegant.

Tonight, with Theo’s appreciative glance, I actually felt elegant for the first time in years.

“Nervous?” he asked as we pulled up to the restaurant.

“Should I be?” I countered.

“After all, I’m just having dinner with my son and the daughter-in-law who thinks I’m an embarrassment to humanity.”

“What could go wrong?”

Theo’s laugh was rich and warm.

“There’s the Eleanor, I remember, sharp as attack and twice as dangerous when properly motivated.”

Brandon and Vivien were already seated when we arrived, both looking like they were attending a business negotiation rather than a family dinner, which I suppose they were.

Vivien had clearly spent considerable time on her appearance tonight.

Her makeup was flawless, her hair perfectly styled, and her dress screamed expensive designer.

She looked like she was trying to audition for the role of worthy dinner companion.

“Mom,” Brandon stood as we approached.

His smile strained, but present.

“Mr. Blackwood, thank you for joining us.”

“Thodor,” Theo corrected easily, extending his hand.

“We’re practically family after all.”

I caught the sharp look Vivien shot her husband at that comment.

“Practically family!”

I wondered how they were interpreting that particular phrase.

We were seated at a prime table with a view of the city lights, and I noticed how the staff treated Theo with the kind of deference reserved for very important people.

Menus appeared without being requested.

Wine was suggested and brought with remarkable speed, and the matraee personally ensured our table was perfect.

“This is lovely,” Vivien said, her society smile in full force.

“Eleanor, you look wonderful.”

“That dress is very flattering.”

I almost choked on my water.

Yesterday I’d been too poor and shabby to sit with the family.

Tonight I looked wonderful.

The hypocrisy was breathtaking, even by Viven’s standards.

“Thank you, dear,” I replied sweetly.

“It’s amazing what good company can do for one’s appearance.”