Hollow Truce

"Cleo, is someone bothering you? Want me to step in?" Conrad asked.

Cleo shook her head, clutching her bag. "No need, Conrad, but thank you."

Conrad ruffled her hair. "Go on home. If you ever need help, just call me anytime."

Conrad had always treated her with such kindness, and Cleo used to really appreciate that.

But these last few times, Cleo just got this weird vibe she couldn't explain—like s