An Unwelcome Guest

I turned to face Fiona Bennett, Julian's sister, who stood there with her arms crossed and a smug expression on her face. Her perfectly styled blonde hair and designer dress only accentuated the ugliness of her sneer.

"I was invited by Camille," I replied evenly, fighting to keep my voice steady. "I'm here as her friend."

Fiona let out a sharp, mocking laugh. "Friend? Is that what you're calling yourself now?" She stepped closer, her expensive perfume nearly choking me. "Let's be honest here. We all know why you're really here."

I felt my cheeks burning as everyone's eyes fixed on me. The rejection bond throbbed painfully in my chest, but I refused to show weakness.

"Enlighten me," I said, lifting my chin slightly.

"You're pathetic," Fiona hissed. "Coming here to try to win my brother back. News flash: he chose Camille. He never wanted you."

Each word was like a knife twisting in my gut. I clenched my fists at my sides, my nails digging into my palms.

"That's enough, Fiona."