AVERY
“Hello Avery, dear.” Mrs. Smith greets me, her expression severe, not matching the sweetness of her voice. Her partner wearing the same, studying me with an objective eye.
“Hello, Mrs. Smith.” I smile, my lips tight with hidden disdain. I don’t like their presence any more than Hayden’s, but at least with them here, we’re not alone. “How lovely to see you and Mr. Smith again.”
My voice is devoid of sarcasm, keeping my cool with the two of them staring me down. Hayden’s hand laces through mine, giving me an encouraging squeeze. His attention makes it hard to breathe, fear gripping my insides. His knee brushes against mine, constant contact making my skin crawl.
“Of course, dear.” She smiles, but like her entire personality it’s fake. Growing up around the ultra elite, you learn re
