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 you got into

get hurt?"

raised an eyebrow. "Who

looked genuinely worried. "A friend

you probably

her, not

clearly relieved.

all

too. Brooklyn

chance."

"Glad to hear it."

Joshua's phone

heading back now," and hung up. Turning back,

"Allie, I bought you some vitamins and supplements.

have to get back to the office, but call me if you

of colorful gift boxes on her

for

not to laugh. "I'm not even injured. What's with

have to be hurt to

yourself."

softly patted

Allie—don't risk yourself

no matter what."

lips

Joshua left.

just stood there for

lost in thought. The

had gently ruffled

hair—her heart almost stopped.

a long time

...

call from Grant. He wanted to meet to talk about