It takes everything I have to keep this charade going.
“I don’t think so. But now that you mention it, you were acting strange.”
“Strange how?”
“You were rambling on about sleeping with Joey to get back at Macallan.”
“Oh God.” She covers her mouth on a gasp.
She’s a horrible actress, not that I’m going to say as much, given that we’re both putting on a pretty lousy show.
“You definitely seemed out of it. You’re probably right that someone put something in your drink.” I keep going, really feeding into her delusion. “You should be mindful about drinking anything that you didn’t pour yourself. Do you remember if someone gave you a drink?”
“I... I think so.”
“Well, lucky for you, you walked away unscathed. It could have been a lot worse.”
“Yeah...” She looks down at the open notebook in front of her and then back to me as I lower myself into the chair behind me. “Did Macallan... Was he there when I was there?”
I nod.
“Did he... Was he upset with me?”
“Not at all. I think he was worried about you.”
“Really?” She perks up at this, something unsettling flashing in her eyes.
“He could see something was going on with you and he was definitely concerned.” Not a total lie.
“Surprised he still cares.”
“Yeah, me too. Didn’t know he had it in him,” I quickly agree.
“Well, I’m sorry if I did or said anything to upset you.”
“I don’t hold anything against you that you did while you were inebriated.”
“Well, thank you for that.”
“I’m just glad you’re okay.”
“Me too.” She smiles.
“You working on something?” I point to her open notebook.
“Just going through some notes for an upcoming quiz.”
“Well, I’ll let you get back to it. I am in desperate need of a shower.” I push to a stand, gathering my things.
“Hey, Maisie,” Lana calls after me just as I reach the open bathroom door.
“Yeah?” I look over my shoulder to meet her gaze.
“I’m really glad we’re friends.”
My stomach coils.
“Yeah, me too.” I force a too-bright smile to my lips before turning to face the bathroom.
