Beauty Shop Tales. Nancy Thompson Robards

home from California with Avril?”

      “Yes, I did, as a matter of fact.”

      I flinch. “Well, not exactly with me. I met Mr. Wright on the plane.”

      This time I cringe.

      Mr. Wright sounds like Mr. Right. Oh, for the love of—

      “Well, is that so? How romantic! Some girls wait their entire lives and never meet Mr. Right. You’re lucky enough to have had two Mr. Rights. You lead a charmed life, ladybug.”

      “No, that’s not what I—”

      “Now, don’t you worry what anyone might say about it being too soon to jump back into that dating pool. This is not the Victorian age. Chet would’ve wanted this for you.”

      “Tanya, Max and I are not—”

      “Baby doll, you don’t have to explain to me or anyone else. It’s none of nobody’s business what you two are doing. You’re both consenting adults.” She jabs a chubby finger at Max. “You just be sure you treat her right if you know what’s good for you. She’s been through too much heartbreak already. There’s a lot of people around here who’ll skin you alive if you hurt our Avril.”

      He crosses his arms and flashes a smile.

      “Oh, my intentions are perfectly honorable. Don’t you worry about that.”

      I’m absolutely immobilized by the scene unfolding in front of me. Immobilized and horrified. I want to say something. I know I should say something.

      For that matter, why doesn’t Mr. Right-Wright set her straight instead of egging her on?

      “Oh, would you look at the time,” says Tanya. “I have to run.” She cocks her head to the side and flashes a coy grin. “Mr. Right. Oh, it’s so romantic. You kids restore my faith in love. Toodles.”