Girl Get Rid Of That Jerk by Melissa Johns

Over the weekend, Allison brought Brooklyn along for a client meeting in Havenbrook.

While they were there, Allison bumped into Pearl-an old face from Shawn's crowd. Pearl tried to be friendly, even invited Allison out for dinner, but Allison wasn't having it. She remembered too well how she used to think of Pearl as a friend, even splurged on an expensive bracelet for Pearl's birthday. When people started making snide comments, saying the bracelet was fake, Pearl didn't say a word to defend Allison. She just sat there, saying nothing, letting everyone laugh. That was the day Allison saw Pearl for who she really was.

Pearl, just like the rest of Shawn's friends, thought Allison wasn't good enough for their little circle. And Allison had no interest in pretending otherwise.

After three days in Havenbrook, Allison and Brooklyn headed back to Oak Lake. By the time they landed, it was already Wednesday, May 20th.

As Allison stepped out of the business class lounge, she immediately spotted Joshua waiting outside. She automatically slowed down. What was he doing here?

Joshua looked sharp in a deep gray suit, the cut perfectly framing his broad shoulders. Even standing casually, he exuded this effortless kind of confidence and class.

Allison walked over, her voice cool and even. "How did you know I was coming back today?"

Joshua met her gaze. "I checked your flight info."

She kept her tone icy. "My driver could've picked me up. You didn't have to come out of your way, Mr. Fisher."

Without waiting for a response, Allison turned and walked toward the parking lot. Brooklyn trailed after her, suitcase in tow.

up and took Brooklyn's suitcase without asking. "Allie, ride with me. I've got two new cases

stopped and looked

"I brought all the evidence files-they're in the

it was work, she couldn't

fingers

and looks

as they

through the parking garage.

his black Cullinan, Joshua loaded their bags himself. Once

and Allison settled

Do you want to get something to eat first?" Joshua asked, glancing at Allison in the

Where are the case files? I'd

up front, on the

bet

did, her light floral scent drifted over toshua, and

felt his heart

hadn't been this close to her