CHAPTER TWELVE – RUBBING IT IN HER FACE

The next morning, the tension in the car was palpable as Kayla picked Lana up. The silence stretched on, punctuated only by the rhythmic whirring of the air conditioner. Neither woman dared to make eye contact, the events of yesterday hanging heavy in the air. When they reached the office, Kayla pulled into her designated parking spot and sighed. "Alright, Lana," she said, her voice clipped. "Head to the office and start working on the vendor lists. Focus on caterers first, prioritize those with experience in handling high-end events." Lana nodded mutely, her eyes downcast, and scurried out of the car. Kayla took a deep breath, trying to shake off the lingering resentment. She needed to focus, to get the job done. As she entered the building, she spotted Skylar coming towards her, a bright smile on her face. Relief washed over Kayla. "Skylar!" she exclaimed, breaking into a relieved smile of her own. They embraced warmly, the awkwardness of their previous interaction a distant memo