“Michael wants to see you, Ivy,” Liz says.
“I’m with somebody,” Shelly replies.
“He wants to see you now.”
“She doesn’t want to see him,” I say, standing before I even realize I’m doing it. Shelly pulls at my arm, dragging me back to my seat.
“Don’t.” There’s a begging note in her voice, and one of the blisters deep inside my chest pops.
“Who the hell is that guy? He bad news? Has he hurt you or something?”
She shakes her head. “Just go home. I’ll call you later.”
I stare at her for what feels like forever. Really? Like I can’t handle it? I know what she does here. My brain twists and tumbles, and I try to sort out what the hell’s going on, but eventually all I can say is, “I’m staying. Do what you have to.”
“Baby…”
“Just do what you need,” I say, making sure to phrase it in a way
