The Calm Before The Storm

Zayn returns to us, his face heavy with frustration and disbelief. He sighs deeply before speaking, 

"That was my mom. She just called to tell me that Price wasted no time—she's already told her I'm being played and that you're having an affair with Chris."

The room falls silent, the weight of his words sinking in like lead. I feel my heart drop, anger and fear battling within me. Candy's jaw tightens, and she sets her wineglass down carefully, though I can tell she's barely keeping her composure.

"She really didn't waste time." 

Candy mutters, her voice low and laced with disbelief.

I look at Zayn, searching his eyes for a sign of what he's thinking, but his expression remains guarded. 

"What did your mom say?" 

I ask cautiously, my voice trembling.

Zayn shakes his head. 

"She didn't sound convinced, but she's suspicious. You know how she is—Price probably spun it to sound just believable enough."