2
Out of sight, out of mind.
I retreated to my room, burying myself in work.
A knock on the door.
Qiana, a mango pudding in hand, stood there, beaming.
Her captivating almond eyes sparkled, a few flecks of yellow pudding dusting her pretty face.
“Lanic, the party’s hopping downstairs. Come join the fun!”
I saw right through her feigned enthusiasm.
“I’ve got work to do. Have fun,”
I said, my tone flat.
Suddenly, tears welled in Qiana’s eyes.
She looked utterly wronged.
“Lanie, do you hate me? Is that why you’re rejecting me?”
I frowned.
I hadn’t done anything!
How could she play the victim?
*Seriously? I thought, my patience wearing thin.
“Save that act for Ethan and Mason. It won’t work on me.”
I started to close the door.
“Lanie, please…”
Qiana lunged, trying to stop the door.
Her hand got caught in the jamb.
Her fingers instantly turned red and purple.
She gasped in pain.
“Ouch!”
Ethan and Mason were coming upstairs.
They saw the scene.
Both men rushed to her side, tending to her injured hand, their faces etched with concern. Mason’s eyes were practically red-rimmed seeing Qiana’s hurt hand.
His usually blunt personality flared.
“Lanie, if you don’t like Qiana, just say it! Why would you do something so low? What’s gotten into you?”
Ethan, usually reserved, looked disappointed.
“Lanie, it’s Qiana’s birthday. You shouldn’t have done that.”
But when he looked at Qiana, his voice softened.
“Qiana, does it hurt? Let’s get you some ointment.”
With Ethan tending to her, Mason quickly followed, soothing her.
“Qiana, don’t be upset. After the party, I’ll take you for a drive. It’ll cheer you up!”
With both men showering her with attention, Qiana’s face cleared.
“Thank you, Ethan.”
