After Willa introduced a light drinking game to the guests to diffuse the tension, she returned to Alex's side, whispering. "I'm sorry. I just got a message. Something came up at home."
"It's alright. I'll handle things here," Alex said with a reassuring smile.
Willa still looked hesitant to leave her alone, glancing toward the table of unpredictable VIPs. But the matter at home was urgent, so she had no choice but to leave.
"Text me if anything happens, alright?"
"I will. Go."
With one last glance, Willa slipped out.
Now alone, Alex resumed monitoring the guests.
At exactly nine o'clock, the door opened, and two ladies walked in, and all conversations stopped.
"Oh, you guys started without me," a voice rang out. It was sharp, familiar, and instantly triggering.
Alex stiffened, her face scrunching up in a grimace.
Sierra.
A bad feeling instantly settled in her chest.
"I'm sorry to keep you waiting," Sierra finished, moving further into the room.
