Eight

VIXEN FELT AS IF SHE was floating for the rest of the day, and she was just so, so happy that she couldn't stop smiling despite everyone teasing her over yesterday's big "announcement" about her dating life.

There were, of course, a few neighbors who weren't able to resist asking her about the other woman currently staying at Rule's place, but all she was willing to confirm was that Beatriz was Riley's mother.

And speaking of which...

It was late in the afternoon when silence swept over the cafe, with Beatriz herself making a splashy entrance as her stilettos clicked loudly against the floor.

"I'd like to speak with you."

Several eyebrows arched up at the other woman's imperious tone, more so when Beatriz abruptly turned her back without waiting for Vixen to answer.

Juno, having witnessed the one-sided exchange, looked ready to go after Beatriz, but Vixen quickly shook her head. "Remember that she's also Riley's mother," she whispered to the younger girl, "and we all have our bad days."

Vixen carried a tray of refreshments to where Beatriz was seated, but the other woman ignored this completely.

"Rule told me this morning you two are dating now. But I seem to recall you claimed the opposite yesterday."

"We weren't—-"

"Are you aware that he's forbidden me to stay at his place because of you?"

"I'm sorry. I didn't—-"

"I know you didn't have anything to do with it," Beatriz snapped. "What I want to know is what you're willing to do about it!"

"I...I'm not sure what you want me to say."

"You may be nice, but you're not that smart, are you? I want you to convince Rule to change his mind. Because if you don't, then you'll be the reason my daughter and I will grow apart."