Just as the last bit of gauze came off, James let out a low groan from the pain. Maria’s heart twisted at the sound, her face scrunching in worry.
Noticing her reaction, James forced a smile in her direction, trying to ease her mind, but it only made her feel worse.
Trying to distract from the pain, he asked aloud, “So… what did you and Rachel Collins talk about?”
“She mentioned Noah. Guess she still has feelings for him,” Maria lied without missing a beat.
Amelia had gotten away clean, no evidence left behind. If she told James the truth now, he might not even believe her. There was no proof, and even if Rachel got caught later, there was no guarantee she’d actually talk. Amelia always had a way out. Maria couldn’t afford to get caught off guard.
James didn’t think too mu
