But Alicia shook her head.
Vincent was possessive, and Alicia's guardedness toward everyone meant she had no friends except him. She didn't even want to contact Albertine from the orphanage—getting the headmistress involved in her run-in with the police would only make her worry.
While Chester was at a loss, Alicia's phone vibrated.
The caller ID was an unfamiliar number, but Alicia knew it was Tyrone.
Chester handed her the phone, hoping she could find someone willing to bail her out.
Alicia hesitated for a few seconds before answering. "Mr. Lynch…"
"I'm not calling to pressure you about your decision," Tyrone's voice was calm, almost businesslike. "There's a dinner tonight at the Seaview Chamber of Commerce. My grandfather, the former chairman, will be there. Would you have time to attend as my guest? Name your terms."
It was as if he was negotiating some deal—offering Alicia terms just to have her accompany him, all to please Maddox.
Alicia's fingers stiffened around the phone. Her voice was hoarse. "Mr. Lynch… I'm in a bit of trouble. I'm at the Pinecrest Police Station in Seaview City. Could you help bail me out…?"
Silence on the other end. No answer. The call disconnected.
Alicia set the phone down, disappointment flickering across her face, and gave Chester an apologetic look. "Sorry, Chester…"
Nobody wanted to help her.
Chester glanced at her, then stood to pour some water before signaling for the female officer to escort Alicia to the holding cell.
"Chester, do you know that woman?" the officer asked, curiosity piqued.
"Yeah, I know her." Chester didn't deny it—it might help Alicia if his colleagues thought they were acquainted, maybe show her a little leniency. "We're friends."
"Then why'd she get into a fight?" the officer pressed.
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