102

I thought a great deal about what Maria said. Having finally been able to tell someone had been a great relief and I missed being able to confide in my friends. I called Maria.

"I've decided to approach Tiffany about my problems. Would you go with me when I tell her? I could use your support. Perhaps you might notice something in her behavior I might miss."

"Of course," Maria said. "When do you want to do it?"

"Usually, I'm posing for Suki on weekdays, but on the days Oliver has me do something, I take the rest of the day off. I usually need to recover physically and emotionally after he uses me. He wants to see me on Tuesday morning. Would it be possible for you to take time off from work on Tuesday and go see her with me."

"What time do you want to meet?"

"I'm not sure how long Oliver will use me. I'm to meet him at his house at 9:00 AM. He could be done with me anytime from ten to one PM depending on what he has planned."

"You make arrangements with Tiffany and I'll be there at noon, no matter what time you get there."

"Thank you, Maria. I appreciate it more than you'll ever know."

After hanging up with Maria, I called Tiffany at work.

"Hi, Brooke. What's up?"

"I have something very important to speak with you about. Maybe the most important thing I've ever needed. Would it possible for you to take time off on Tuesday and meet with me at your house?"

"Are you having problems with your marriage, Brooke? Is Tanner treating you all right? Do you need a place to stay?"

"Tanner is treating me fine. I'm very happy with him. It's something different. Please, Tiffany."

"Let me check my schedule. Hold on a minute."

She put me on hold and I waited for about four minutes before she picked up. "I had something, but nothing that couldn't be moved. My secretary is taking care of moving it. I can meet with you on Tuesday. What time?"

"I'm not sure and the reason I'm not sure is the reason I need to talk to you. It could be anywhere from noon until later. Maria will be there at noon to wait for me with you."

"Is it a problem with Maria?"

"Nothing like it, Tiffany. She learned about my issue by accident and she's encouraged me to reach out to you. She's there for moral support."

"This is all very mysterious, Brooke," Tiffany said.

"I know and I apologize. You'll know why when I speak with you."

"Does this have anything to do with why you've been more distant lately?"

"Yes."

"I'll be there."

"Thank you, Tiffany. I don't know how to thank you."

"I haven't done anything yet. Why don't you save your thanks for when I've actually done something."

"Just listening to my story will be huge. Believe me."

"I'll see you Tuesday." Tiffany disconnected the call.