Chapter 7I take the long way from the elevator to my desk, so that I can pass Melanie’s office. She’s already in, seated at her pristine desk and looking dapper in a black pinstripe suit.
“Good morning,” I chirp, poking my head in through the open door.
“Heyyy!” Melanie replies, looking up from her computer.
“How are you feeling, Justice?” I grin.
“I’m sore. And I found some derby kisses on my butt.” She laughs.
“Derby kisses?”
“Bruises.”
“Gotcha.”
“Thankfully, I didn’t take too many falls.”
“It was such a good game,” I say. “I should get to my desk, but I wanted to check in on the champion.”
“Oh, you’re too kind. See you at lunch?”
“Of course!”
* * * *
When I get home after that evening’s yoga class, Nicole is sitting on the couch, staring sullenly at her phone.
“Hey,” I say
