My attention was first drawn to the open window of the car. I gave the driver a hard glare, and he returned my gaze. A car was waiting for me, and the driver rolled down the rear window and opened the door as soon as I got close.

My chest hurt from the strain.

"Alyssa, I know you have a lot on your plate, so I encourage you to just go. We'll have to reschedule our get-together at another time. "

"The next time, I'll be paying for everything. "

Salin dismissed the idea with a sweep of her hand.

"Feel free to get in touch with me. "The car...