Girl Get Rid Of That Jerk by Melissa Johns

"I heard some girls talking trash about Cindy behind her back once," Carolyn said,

her voice muffled as she pressed her face into her palms. Her shoulders shook

with every quiet sob. "I actually fought with them over it. I really care about her—

not just to make myself look good, like she thinks..."

Allison didn't know what to say, so she just rubbed Carolyn's back gently.

"Maybe I did mess up," Carolyn choked out. "Cindy's so sensitive, so insecure. I

should've thought about her feelings more..."

Allison sighed. "You really have to be careful about who you trust as a friend."

Carolyn cried for a while, and by the time they pulled up to her place, her eyes

were swollen and red.

The car stopped.

Carolyn wiped her tears and managed a wobbly smile. "Thanks, Allison. I

seriously owe you for saving me. If you ever need anything, just tell me, okay?"

Allison smiled back. "Deal. I'll hold you to that."

...

Allison had barely left Carolyn's house when, back at the law office, the

receptionist flagged her down. "Joshua's here for you."

As soon as Allison opened her office door, Joshua shot to his feet and crossed the

room in a few quick steps. Concern was written all over his face as he looked her

you okay? I heard

get hurt?"

raised an eyebrow. "Who told you

"A friend at the police department called

shifted, unreadable. "Then you probably know it

drugged. They were after her, not me. I

out a breath, clearly relieved. "Yeah, I heard Carolyn's okay,

involved all

"I'm fine too. Brooklyn was

chance."

"Glad to hear it."

Joshua's

answered quickly, "I'm heading back now," and hung

"Allie, I bought you some vitamins

back to the office, but call me if you need

at the pile of colorful gift boxes on her desk—so many, there

for

even injured. What's with all

to be hurt

of yourself."

softly patted

Allie—don't risk yourself

no matter what."

lips together and didn't

Joshua left.

just stood

in thought.

had gently

hair—her heart almost stopped.

had been a long time

...

Allison got a call from Grant.