Before I could respond, she smiled brightly and nudged me into the backseat. "Oh, Shannon, no need to get all dressed up! You're already beautiful enough! Besides, do you think James would even let you leave the house if you got all dolled up?"
The door shut behind me, and she casually slid back into the front seat. They chatted non-stop during the drive while I sat in the back, feeling like a complete outsider. In our eight years of marriage, I had never seen James this eager to share anything with me. At that moment, I clearly felt the difference between being loved and not being loved.
When the car finally stopped, I was shocked to see that the team-building event was being held at the same barbecue stall where I had almost been assaulted the other night. The owner was open for business this time, and the tables outside were packed with company employees. When they saw James step out with Lindsay, they rushed to greet the two, calling them 'Mr. Carter' and 'Miss Thompson' while the employees ushered them to the center of attention.
I scanned the area and noticed only one seat left in the corner.