12 January - Diane

It was not difficult to read between the lines of Diane's email. Frankly it was pretty crystal clear to me. I knew she was feeling vulnerable and trying to regain her equilibrium. I hated being away in LA, especially during the holidays and especially now when I knew she'd need a lot of support. She was being brave, I knew, but I also knew that when she was feeling blue and recovering herself from her time with Colin, I had always been there with a box of Kleenex and a quart of Blue Bell mint chocolate chip ice cream. Diane always rallied, but it took some time and it took distance. The Evening Standard Awards was so not what she needed now, but just maybe it was what she needed now.


Dear Di:

Never mind about the case, it's dry as dirt and not very interesting at all. Yes, Maggie is here, but she has gotten into the LA scene, I may never get her back to Austin. I will be finishing up here by week's end and then be back home. I missed you too over the holidays. You're right, they weren't the same. Ok, so now that I have gotten the pleasantries over with, sit down and listen up.

You are going to the Evening Standard Awards and I am going with you. I have cleared my calendar and will be at your disposal. I understand your concerns over seeing Colin or what the press may or may not try to dig up. However, the nomination is a big deal and you should be very proud. More importantly, however, is you cannot hide out with your head in the sand and I have no intention of letting you do that. I think your absence will speak louder than your appearance. Di, I will hold your hand and get you through this.

I have already spoken with Jack and he has no assignments scheduled, so he can accompany us to London. It's been one of the places he has always wanted to visit. So, you see, you have to go now. You can't disappoint Jack now, can you?

We can meet Saturday night to go over the details, your choice of venue. I've got your back, Di, as always. Now book us that trip!

Love,
Hilly