nd into the city air, taking a deep, satisfying breat

ied behind her

catch up. Candice had managed to plaster a shak

ifted away, breaking the contact. "I know that was... a little unpleasant

r eyes. The sheer audacity was almost impressi

arms crossed, his face a thundercloud o

silent command to play along. She tur

arming party next week

w. "A housewarming par

ined from their faces. Candice's mask of frien

f your busines

onestly, Aleen, you're overreacting. He's a good guy, he was just being friendly, and you made a huge scene. He s

e inversion of victim and aggressor, and her eye

andice... I thought you were my friend. That man was aw

concealed sneer, appearing utterly heartbroken. She shook

turning away from them before they c

anger breaking free. "Don't you g

r stride. She just hurried toward the curb where an Uber was pulling up. She opened the back doo

f triumph and contempt. They saw exactly what she wanted them to see: a weak, pathetic girl, broke

tification from the Oracle AI, it

are looking quite robust! The

redatory, touched Aleen's

d clear. "Take me to the Costco Busin

the game was ove

y enough. She wanted them desti

l that was coming, with absolutely n