‘All I’m saying is a little makeup never hurt anyone.’ ‘I’m just not that kind of person.’ ‘What do you mean that kind of person? What am I, some kind of cheap date? Jesus F. Christ, I get knocked up once,’ she shouted, ‘and you act like I’m some kind of street walker!’ People were staring at us. I walked fast, pretending not to know her. ‘Kate!’ She chased me. ‘Kate!’ Finally I said, ‘You could be a little more discreet!’ ‘Ha!’ she said — ‘Ha!’ — but she didn’t sound amused. ‘Discreet? But I have a pale complexion, Kate. Did you hear me? Mrs Nevins! My complexion is too pale!’ I dashed through the door to the taxi stand outside, trying to get away before Gwen caught up with me. I had told her not to call me Mrs Nevins. Sharing the experience with her had been a mistake. I should have known better. All information — secrets or not — ultimately became Gwen’s property. At least I hadn’t told her about my plans for New Year’s Eve.
