Chapter 483

“Good morning!” she said, a big smile on her face even if it was fake. “Hi Emma,” Lisa said, followed by a similar greeting from the others. Emma sat in the spare seat and felt awkwardly like she was in the hot seat. The others were arrayed around the table in such a way as to be all facing her, like an inquisition or a parole hearing. A waitress approached and Emma ordered coffee, everyone waited until the waitress left before speaking. “So,” Becky began, looking at the others. “We thought it would be nice to catch up away from the boys and get to know you a little bit.” Cassie nodded, taking up the narrative. “Seeing as though you are going to be around on a more permanent basis now.” “Thanks,” Emma said, her fake smile firmly in place. She hoped god, or whatever other deity was feeling benevolent at the moment, her nerves and fear didn’t show in her eyes. These women would smell blood in the water and attack given half the chance. She knew—cognitively—that they were only looking out