"A friend of yours?"

A fleeting flash of distaste crossed Lucia's eyes. "No, someone I dislike."

"Anyone you dislike can't be a good person," said the colleague, trying to pay her a compliment.

Lucia enjoyed it. "Let's not talk about it. It's a mood killer."

By the time I arrived at the restaurant, Zara was arriving as well.

Arm in arm, we walked in together.

"How was the interview?"

"It went well, but I don't know if I'm going to get the job."

"If you don't, just try another company. There are plenty of pharmaceutical companies in the city. Any company would be lucky to employ you."

"Thanks for the...