Chapter 20

Fortunately, Ms. Valdez came with Vince at her next appointment with us. I think Vince talked her out of this, and I smiled at both of them. I informed them about the procedures, risks, and possible outcomes before both signed the consent forms.

We prepared Ms. Valdez on the dental chair when Vince went to the waiting room. I thought everything would go well, but the moment my assistant went to retrieve the x-rays at the lab, Ms. Valdez’s pleasing, positive personality went sideways.

“You knew my son!?” She asked in anger, but she was aware to make sure no one would hear us. “Why did you tell my son about this?”

“I- I was trying to help.”

“Well, you’re not.” Her eyes grew wide and fierce. “Vince wasn’t supposed to know, and he shouldn’t have been burdened by his own mother. I can’t believe I’m dragging him into my mess.”

I felt a sudden sympathy for her. I always thought back in high school Vince’s family was picture perfect with their friendly house an