Then Emily Made Her Decision

She told Natalie:

“Go home.”

Natalie’s expression changed.

“Emily.”

“Please.”

For the first time all night, Natalie didn’t argue.

She picked up her purse and left.

Susan looked satisfied.

Then Emily turned toward her.

“And you need to change.”

Susan’s satisfaction disappeared.

“Excuse me?”

Emily repeated:

“You need to change your dress.”

Susan stared at her.

“After what your sister just did?”

“Especially now.”

“My backup dress is at the hotel.”

Emily nodded.

“Then Daniel can take you.”

Daniel looked at her.

“What?”

Emily continued:

“Natalie crossed a line. She’s gone.”

Then she looked at Susan.

“You crossed one too.”

Susan Said Emily Was Blaming the Victim

Susan couldn’t believe it.

“I had wine poured on me, and I’M being punished?”

Emily shook her head.

“I’m not saying what Natalie did was okay.”

“Then why am I leaving?”

Emily answered quietly:

“Because I asked you months ago not to wear this.”

Susan opened her mouth.

Emily continued:

“And you wore it anyway.”

“It’s champagne.”

Emily almost smiled.

“Not anymore.”

Daniel had to turn away to hide his reaction.

That did not help.