***
Fifteen minutes later, I arrived at the restaurant.
Three women were waiting.
« Zoe! Finally! » Madison waved.
Another woman hugged me.
« Love your sweater! »
« Thanks, » I said, trying not to laugh.
I arrived at the restaurant.
Bethany barely spoke.
« Everything okay? » I asked.
She forced a smile. « Perfect. »
Madison glanced at her. « You sure? »
« Let’s just eat. »
Bethany barely spoke.
Then Madison asked, « Still planning that weekend trip? »
« Maybe. »
« You were so excited! »
« Plans change. »
I checked the entrance. No Zoe.
Let’s just eat.
Another thirty minutes passed before Bethany leaned toward me.
« Come outside. We need to talk. »
Her expression made my stomach tighten.
I followed her into the hallway.
The moment we were alone, she crossed her arms.
« I didn’t think you’d have the nerve to show up here. »
No Zoe.
I blinked. « What? »
« Seriously, Zoe? »
« I don’t understand. »
« Don’t insult my intelligence. »
