Alicia stared closely at Becky, narrowing her eyes. She noticed how Becky’s hands trembled slightly and how her breathing was fast and uneven.
“Are you okay, Mrs. Lucas? You don’t look good to me,” she asked calmly, but with a hint of concern.
Becky swallowed hard. She knew everyone in the room was watching. Her heart was pounding, her knees weak.
“I... I’ve been sick all night,” she stammered. “I feel dizzy.”
She didn’t even know how the words came out of her mouth. The lie just slipped out, like her mind had decided for her. But she was thankful, anything to save face, anything not to look stupid again.
Alicia nodded slowly, walking closer until she stood right in front of Becky. She leaned in so close that Becky could feel her warm breath.
“You should’ve called in sick; take two d
