A Calculated Arrangement

Stella

I take a few moments to collect myself, wiping away the last of my tears with the back of my hand. I need to understand what’s going on, even if Vance’s sudden announcement still stings like a fresh wound, and even if all of this makes me angrier than I’ve ever been.

Finally, I manage to calm myself the tiniest bit and sink down onto the edge of the bed, my eyes fixed on him.

“Alright,” I