I follow his gaze to see Valerie zeroing in on us like a buzzard onto a pile of guts. She rises from her table, leaving behind her ever-present entourage, and stalks toward us with that too-perfect stride. Her icy eyes are sharp, glinting with that familiar look of superiority. I brace myself as she approaches.
“Well, well, well,” she sneers, her voice dripping with venom. “Look who’s slumming it in the cafeteria. Hailey, I’ve been meaning to have a little chat.” Her smile is anything but friendly as she stands a little too close for comfort.
I swallow hard but keep my face neutral. “Valerie, if you want something, just say it.”
Her lips curl into a smirk. “Oh, I’m onto you. Do you and Celeste really think you can waltz around here as if you’re untouchable? Think again.” She crosses her
