Seduction Begins

Candy and I walk into the hospital, the cold, sterile air wrapping around us like a warning. My nerves are on edge as we approach the front desk. I keep replaying Mika's words about needing to suss out what Price remembers, but my stomach churns at the thought of seeing her again after what happened.

The nurse at the desk glances up, and I force a polite smile. 

"We're here to see Price Balboa." 

I say, my voice steady despite the chaos inside me.

Her expression turns cold. 

"Ms. Price has explicitly stated that she doesn't want any visitors."

I blink, caught off guard. Before I can say anything, Candy steps forward, leaning on the counter with a warm, disarming smile. 

"Oh, that's understandable." 

She says sweetly. 

"But we're close friends. She'll be happy to see us."

The nurse's unimpressed look makes it clear she's not buying Candy's charm. 

"Sorry, ma'am. Orders are orders."