Rich Radiant and Over Him (Alicia and Vincent) novel Chapter 136

Tyrone wasn't home, and Melanie had snuck back again.

After spending some time with Alicia, Melanie had grown genuinely fond of her—especially since she had never really had friends at school. Whenever something upset her, all she wanted was to come back and talk to Alicia about it.

She used to think Jade was nice, mostly because Jade had stood up for her a few times. Ever since her mom passed away, Melanie hadn't known what it felt like to have someone care about her, so even the smallest kindness from Jade had felt precious.

But after these past few weeks, she realized that Alicia was truly someone worth trusting.

"Sweetheart, you're back again? Mr. Lawrence said... you shouldn't come home and bother Mrs. Lawrence," Wilma whispered at the door, clearly torn.

Melanie peeked inside with a pitiful look, but when she spotted Alicia, her face lit up. "Alicia!"

Alicia was just taking a sip of water and nearly choked. This kid really had no sense of boundaries. "It's alright, Wilma. Let her in."

Melanie bounded into the living room, clinging to Alicia's arm. "Alicia, let's go shopping!"

"Not today. I'm meeting some friends—we're headed to the beach," Alicia replied, not missing a beat.

Melanie's eyes sparkled. "Then take me with you!"

Alicia glanced at the clock. "It's Friday, isn't it? Don't you have class this morning? Why are you back?"

Melanie slumped down on the couch, her excitement fading. "I don't want to go to school."

Kids usually don't want to go to school because something's gone wrong there.

Instead of lecturing her, Alicia sat down beside her. "What happened? Is someone picking on you?"

Melanie shook her head, staring at the floor.