Page 27 of Manic

"I'm okay," I say, aiming for nonchalance. But the words feel hollow even to my own ears.

Charm's eyes narrow, and she crosses her arms over her chest. "Cut the shit, Meg. This is me you're talking to."

I swallow hard, fighting the urge to look away.

My mind races, trying to decide how much to reveal.

How do I tell them that I'm terrified, that I'm running from ghosts both old and new?

That coming back here feels like ripping open a wound that never fully healed?

"I..." I start, then shake my head. "It's complicated, Charm. I'm dealing with some stuff, but I'll be fine. I always am, right?"

The words come out more bitter than I intended, and I see Charm and Ivar exchange a worried glance.

Shit. I need to get a grip before I give too much away.

I take a deep breath, steadying myself.

Before I can say anything else, a flurry of movement catches my eye.

Several of the other ol' ladies are making their way toward me, their faces a mix of curiosity and concern.

But it's the sight of Starla that makes my heart clench.

My best friend in the whole wide world, the one person who knows me better than I know myself sometimes.

"Meghan!" Starla calls out, pushing past the others to wrap me in a fierce hug. "God, I've missed you."

I cling to her, surprised by the sudden lump in my throat. "Missed you too, Star," I manage to choke out.

As we pull apart, I can see the questions burning in her eyes.

She doesn't know about my father causing all of this chaos, and I need to tell her.

God, I've kept it bottled up for far too long.

But now isn't the time or place.

I need to pick my battles carefully.

"We've got a lot to catch up on," I say softly, giving her a meaningful look.

She nods, understanding passing between us without words.

The other women crowd around with tons of greetings and questions.

I paste on a smile, answering as vaguely as I can.

My mind is racing, trying to figure out how much to reveal, how to navigate this minefield of old relationships and new secrets.

Suddenly, the crowd parts, and I feel my breath catch in my throat.

Tor is striding toward us, his green eyes locked on mine.

My heart does a little flip in my chest, and I silently curse my body's reaction to him.

He comes to a stop in front of me, a smirk playing on his lips. "I didn't expect you'd be here so soon," he says, his deep voice sending a shiver down my spine.

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