Alicia and Winnie stood together at the front of the office, both a little giddy. It was their first time being “bad students,” and for Alicia—who’d spent the first twenty-something years of her life playing by the rules and keeping her head down—it felt exhilarating.
It was like opening Pandora’s box; once that thrill slipped out, there was no shutting it back in.
And now, Alicia realized she wasn’t as scared as she used to be. Whenever something went wrong, her first thought wasn’t panic—it was Tyrone.
She didn’t want to cause him trouble, but for reasons she couldn’t quite explain, she trusted Tyrone completely. She knew, deep down, that he would always look out for her.
Just like the time she’d landed in the police station for clocking Henry over the head—Tyrone had shown up, pulled her out, and handled everything without a second thought.
Maybe all she really needed to do was follow her heart for once.
“Nervous?” Winnie draped an arm over Alicia’s shoulders. “Babe, don’t be such a goody-two-shoes. It’s good to break the mold now and then.”
Alicia shook her head, eyes sparkling. “Not scared. If she mouths off again, I’ll smack her again.”
Winnie laughed and ruffled Alicia’s hair. “Knew I liked you for a reason. Starting tomorrow, I’m teaching you kickboxing. Give it six months and you’ll be able to take on ten girls at once.”
Alicia burst out laughing and nodded with enthusiasm.
Just then, Chloe stumbled into the office, all bluster and indignation. She was quick to play the victim. “Ms. Carter, I’ve already called my family. My cousin will be here any minute. She’s the heiress to the Holloway family, future lady of Lawson & Co.”
Chloe made sure everyone was aware of Mina’s pedigree, spelling it out in meticulous detail.
Winnie rolled her eyes. “Future lady of Lawson & Co.? That’s still in the future, isn’t it? What if Vincent dumps her? That’d be embarrassing.”
Then, grinning, Winnie pointed at Alicia. “Ms. Carter, this one? She’s already Mrs. Lynch—wife of the Lynch Corporation CEO. Married and official. Unlike some people, who are still just dreaming in front of the mirror.”
The teacher looked between the girls, clearly realizing these weren’t people to mess with.
“Hmph, Mrs. Lynch? Tyrone’s about to be kicked out of the Lynch family. Haven’t you heard?” A haughty voice rang out from the doorway. Mina had arrived, swaggering into the room with her nose in the air.
Alicia glanced at Mina with mock innocence, her voice sugary sweet. “Oh? I heard Vincent’s backing out of the engagement. He told me he doesn’t want to marry you.”
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