Page 104 of What Goes Around

Apple’s eyes lit up.

“Wow,” she said. “That looks amazing on you. Totally your style.”

Marissa preened. “Isn’t it?”

“You have to wear it,” Apple added easily.

I nodded once. Let my expression soften just enough. “Thank you.”

No argument. No hesitation. No refusal.

Marissa exhaled in satisfaction.

“It’s perfect,” she declared.

I changed out of the dress and returned it carefully to the garment bag. Marissa zipped it closed with a contented hum, patting the top as if sealing a deal.

“We’ll steam it that morning,” she said. “You’re going to look stunning.”

She left my room glowing, victorious. Apple followed her, both of them convinced they’d secured my compliance.

I waited until the door closed before letting the mask drop.

I had worn that dress before and I had absolutely no intention of wearing it again.

Later that night, I went downstairs for a glass of water.

I didn’t make it all the way.

Low voices drifted up from the living room.

Marissa’s voice first.

Then Apple’s.

I paused on the second-floor landing, letting the shadows swallow me.

“…just don’t provoke her before the deal is finalized,” Marissa said.

Apple scoffed. “I’m not doing anything.”

“You were,” Marissa snapped. “You always do. And right now, I need you to behave.”

A pause.

“I don’t like her acting like she’s above me,” Apple muttered.

I leaned against the railing, silent, amused.

“Apple,” Marissa snapped. “Until everything is signed, you need to behave. No fights. No scenes. She’s… unpredictable lately.”

Unpredictable.

That one almost made me smile.

Apple sighed dramatically. “Fine. Whatever.”

They shifted topics. Apple’s dress, the performance schedule, instructions on how she should act around important people.