JD's Christmas Wish

"Taylor's having an affair," she announced without preamble.

Val's Gucci wristlet slipped from her hands and flopped against the floor; neither woman made a move for it. "Excuse me?"

"Look." Faith raised a shaking hand and pointed in Taylor's direction. Val's glance went to the window of the jewelry store where Taylor leaned against a glass countertop. His gaze fell affectionately on Lauren as she held out some piece of jewelry.

"I'm sure there's got to be some sort of logical explanation," Val commented, finally plucking her purse off the floor. Her words lacked even an ounce of conviction. "Maybe he's buying something for you."

"Oh, come off it, Val." Faith shot her friend a look capable of boiling the Pacific Ocean. "I'm a big girl. You don't have to coddle me."

Valerie's expression softened, and she put an arm around Faith, turning her away from the store. "Come on, Hon. Let's get out of here."

"No." She ducked from her friend's embrace and stalked toward the little shop. "This ends right now."

"Faith!" Val grabbed her arm, but Faith shook free. "Making a scene will just embarrass you later. There's no sense in putting yourself through that."

Faith ignored her friend's wisdom