Chapter 18: Laura's Song

Casey proceeded in a haze of growing resentment. What exactly was this Grayson Tremaine person? A sweet temptation? A ruthless manipulator? Or the potential love of her life? The possibilities, both heart-warming and soul-crushing, wrestled around in her mind as she was led into the squat, bland building.

The small suburban community center could seat one hundred, but today's audience consisted of only five people. Somehow, Casey ended up seated in the front row but she had no recollection of even entering the building.

Kimiko sat to Casey's right, leaning close, shoulder-to-shoulder. It was as if Kimiko was subconsciously trying to put some distance between herself and the new friends.

Next to Kimiko, the statuesque Emma-Geddon crossed one leg over the other and rested her hands primly in her lap.

Beside her, Bryce the adorably freckled plumber slumped low in her seat. She tapped her fingers on the armrest, impatient.