Her independence after that was not a magical reward for being graceful about rejection.

She argued with her father, changed firms, lost friendships tied to the family alliance, and spent a long year proving she could make decisions without them.

We spoke occasionally, carefully, and without pretending that friendship could be declared by mutual agreement.

Years later she sent Lauren a note congratulating her on a design award.

It contained no hidden message for me.

Lauren showed it to me anyway and said, “She seems decent.” I answered, “She is.