Chapter 3
That one shout absolutely detonated the entire room.
Every head whipped around, eyes locked on me–some shocked, others practically salivating for drama.]
Dylan’s head snapped up, and when he clocked me standing in the doorway, his pupils went pinpoint.[]
That cocky, laid–back vibe froze solid–replaced by shock and something way more complicated.[]
The girl draped all over him immediately sensed the shift, tightening her grip on his arm while shooting me pure venom.
“Savannah?”
1 completely ignored the whispers and stares.[]
Walked straight over to the empty seat next to Emma, cool as ice, and poured myself some water.
“Savannah! Girl, it’s been foreverl
This overdressed chick–Jessica, I think–jumped right in.
“Walt, didn’t you never go to college? Makes sense though, your family couldn’t exactly afford tuition, right?”
“So what’ve you been up to? Please tell me it’s not like everyone’s saying–that you married some old dude for money? I mean, your outfit today is… casual.“]
She really hit that “old dude” part hard, making the other girls snicker behind their hands.
“Spent a few years abroad. Just got back.”
I kept it short, not really in the mood to elaborate.
“Oh, abroad!” []
This guy Marcus picked it up, voice dripping with fake sympathy.
“Rough market for international grads these days, huh? I mean, whatever you were doing overseas… that shit’s illegal here. Look, we’re all classmates–you land a job yet? Want us to hook you up with something?”
“My uncle’s company needs a receptionist. Nothing fancy, just basic computer stuff. Pay’s shit, but hey, at least it’s legit work! Better than whatever you were doing before…“[]
He really dragged that last part out, making his meaning crystal clear.
“Totally!” Jessica immediately piled on with fake concern
“Guys might love blonde bombshells, but let’s be real–it’s never serious.“]
“Savannah, we go way back. If you’re struggling, just say the word.“]
“I mean, with your situation, no degree, no decent clothes for interviews… Girl, let me take you shopping sometime? I can spot you some cash if you’re short. It’s just sad seeing the old class brain end up like this.”
Dylan stayed dead silent.]
Just his knuckles going white around his drink, eyes boring into me.
His new arm candy–Tina Clarke–finally couldn’t hold back]
She let out this nasty laugh, leaning forward with pure condescension.
“So you’re Savannah? Yeah, I’ve heard all about you.“[]
“Word is you used to follow my man around like a lapdog?“]
“Doing his homework, copying notes, making excuses for him with teachers?“||
“How… dedicated of you.”
She paused dramatically, soaking up everyone’s anticipation for the show|
