"I’m going to ask Justin to tutor me!" Nydia blurted, already halfway down the path before her grandmother could even shout after her.
In my earpiece, the director’s voice chimed in with forced enthusiasm.
"Follow her, Mia. Don’t miss this drama."
Of course, he wanted fireworks—the golden boy idol vs. the disgraced heiress. All for a tutoring gig.
I sighed and followed the old woman, already predicting how this mess would unfold.
When we got to the convenience store, a gruff, bald man—mid-50s, beady eyes—was sizing up Justin and Lilith like they were tools he might use or toss.
"You two want to work together? Fine," he said, pointing at Justin. "The guy can haul gas, water, and rice. The girl stays here with me—minds the counter, cleans, and helps in the warehouse."
His gaze lingere
