soon as I told him what I needed. "One of my clients
is Renardo de Palma. His salon is very prestigious and
his client list is a veritable who's who of Palm Beach." "We're not trying to impress anyone but
ourselves," I told him, and he laughed.
"I don't know a woman here who would admit
otherwise," he joked. "Let me see what I can
manage."
Less than twenty minutes later, he called back
to tell me we had appointments at two.
"It's like the best restaurants." he revealed.
"They always hold an opening for a favor, and believe
me. Renardo owes me a few."
"Now so do L" I said.
"It's my pleasure. Let me know what else I can
do for you. Willow." he offered.
I couldn't wait to tell my mother, who, now that
she realized it wasn't just our dreaming aloud to each
other, really became quite nervous. I had to reassure
her that we would be fine and I wouldn't leave her
side for an instant. While I was doing so. Linden
suddenly appeared in the doorway. He was dressed
and had his hair brushed neatly.
"Linden, dear." Mother cried, "how are you?" "Hungry." he declared.
I wondered if he had heard our talk about going
to the beauty parlor and would then recall asking me
to retrieve his paintings from the gallery.
"Good morning," I said, and he turned to me
and nodded. His eyes looked clearer. His face had
more color and he seemed more rested,
"I'm sorry I slept so late," he said. "I have been