NATALIE
The drive to Joan’s place was smooth, almost suspiciously so. Like something was waiting to ruin it. But I ignored the feeling.
I just wanted a soft night. Candles. Robes. Girl talk. No drama.
But as soon as I pulled into her driveway, I knew something was off.
Joan was at the door.
Arms crossed. Face tight.
Not a single part of her looked like someone ready for a spa night.
I stepped out slowly. “Okay… why do you look like you’re about to tell me I’m adopted?”
She didn’t laugh. Just walked over and pulled me into a hug. Tight. Real tight.
“Joan?” I blinked. “Why are you hugging me like someone died?”
“Girl…” she murmured, pulling back. “Just come inside.”
“Wait, what’s going on?”
She didn’t answer. Just grabbed the bags from my hand like I was fragile and led me insi
