Kira raised an eyebrow, eyeing Zoey with suspicion. "Likewise, I guess." She let out a forced smile.
Cindy quickly changed the subject, leading them back to the house. As they walked, Zoey felt the tension in the air. Kira's presence stirred a mixture of discomfort and insecurity within her. She couldn't help but wonder what Kira knew, or if she could sense the connection between Zoey and Austen.
Inside the house, Cindy's mom greeted them warmly. "Kira, dear, it's been a while! How have you been?"
"Busy, Mrs. Dailey. College and work, you know how it goes," Kira replied with a smile, maintaining her composed facade.
As they sat in the living room, Cindy's mom went to prepare snacks, leaving the trio alone. The room felt stifling with unspoken tension. Kira glanced at Zoey, and for a mo
