Only a fool would buy that there's nothing between them.
Valerie playfully shoved her friend, "Since when are you on his side? Thought you were my ride-or-die! Anyway, tuition's sorted, but heads up—there's something you should know."
"What now?" Nina groaned dramatically, clutching her chest. "Every time you say 'something,' my heart does backflips. When did being your BFF become such a wild ride?"
Nina's exaggerated duck-face pout sent Valerie into giggles. "Relax! No big deal—just that I gotta bounce home daily now. Dorm life's over for me."
Nina had seen this coming—rich people problems. Being Mrs. Sidney came with strings attached, and letting Valerie study was already a major concession.
She squished Valerie's cheeks affectionately. "Called it! Well, plot twist—I'm ditching the
