Using a Hidden Hand

Leah's face turned ice-cold, her voice equally frigid. "What did you say? You really heard that?"

"I really did!"

"And did you record it?"

"No… Do you think I'm as scheming as Ella? Hmph. I just wanted to let you know, so you'd understand exactly how you got knocked out of the competition. There are plenty of girls with better family backgrounds and advantages than yours lined up for a date with Director Taylor!"

Bella spoke icily from the other end, "Besides, with Ella badmouthing you, calling you arrogant and ruthless, if I were a guy, I wouldn't want you either!"

Leah gripped her phone tightly. "I understand."

Furious, she threw her phone onto the floor.

The line went dead, filling the silence with the dial tone.

Tears brimming, Leah stomped on the phone, finally turning it off.