Rivalry

A female foot popped out and hit the gravel. The foot was tucked in some outrageously high-heeled shoe but I could not determine what color it was from where I stood. Next, a woman stepped out in a shimmering black dress that flowed like a river around her feet. The neckline was a deep V cut and her blonde hair curled down her shoulders. As she moved, her abundant accessories glittered.

I could not see her face, but her posture, the angle of her chin, and the way she carried herself were familiar. Terribly familiar. Recognition struck me like a bolt of electricity.

It was Neil’s mother. Ms. Declan.

“I knew it...” Neil said under his breath like he read my thoughts.

“Isn’t that Mr. Giles’ ex-wife?” That annoying high-pitched voice asked again, making me grate my teeth. Even though Ms. Declan had been excluded from the Giles’ social life, a couple of people still knew her, mainly because she is Neil’s mother, and she still had some right to see her son.

“What is she do