Page 107 of Stroke of Fate

We’re on our way to pay when I spot a familiar redhead near the registers.

“That’s Sadie,” I tell Pia, keeping my voice low.

She follows my gaze to where Sadie’s standing, posture rigid, not a hair out of place. And, as usual, overdressed.Underneath her fake façade, she’s quite pretty. It’s a pity her personality could use some work.

“The mean girl who’s forgotten we’re adults and no longer in high school?” Pia whispers.

“That’s the one,” I nod.

“You were right. She does look like she has a permanent stick up her ass.”

I can’t help it. I laugh. Unfortunately, it’s loud enough to draw Sadie’s attention. The usual sneer reserved for me takes over her face when she spots us.

I’m about to tell Pia we should walk the aisles until she leaves, but it’s too late. Sadie’s already making her way over.

I brace myself. Not for her bitchiness but because next to me, Pia is already baring her teeth, and I know she won’t take whatever Sadie says lying down. While I’m always ready to turn the other cheek, Pia is more than happy to dish it right back.

“What a coincidence seeing you here.” Sadie drawls, looking me up and down before sparing a glance at Pia. “Who’s your friend?”

“Who areyou?” Pia shoots back, giving Sadie the same once-over she just gave me.

Sadie looks momentarily stunned by the attitude, and I roll my lips together to prevent the smile from threatening to break free.

“Sadie,” she says, jutting her chin out. “I’m sure Bear has mentioned me.”

Pia and I exchange a look.

Is this bitch for real?

I told you she’s full of herself.

Pia pins her with a look. “Actually, she hasn’t.”

Ignoring her, Sadie peers into the basket hooked in the crook of my arm.

“Ballerina,” she muses, eyeing the package. “Cute, if not a bit boring. But then again, that suits you perfectly.”

She flashes me a patronizing smile, and next to me, Pia goes rigid.

“Listen here bitch. How about you leave us alone and go find yourself a new fucking attitude for Halloween?”

Sadie narrows her eyes, but my best friend doesn’t back down. Instead, she takes a step closer. Knowing this is my cue, I squeeze Pia’s elbow in warning.

“Let’s not waste any more time on her. She’s not worth it.” My eyes silently plead with Pia to let it go.

Nodding, Pia takes a step back. “You’re right, she’s not.”

We pay for our things, not sparing Sadie another glance, but as we leave, her icy voice cuts through the overhead music.

“Watch your back, Bear.”

Pia halts her stride, but I give her a subtle head shake. She rolls her eyes but, thankfully, keeps walking.

Once we’re back in my car, Pia says what I’ve been thinking.

“She’s going to be a problem.”

“I know,” I murmur.

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