A Costly Charade

Valerie dared not say that she knew Phoebe as it was too humiliating.

“If she refuses to get to know you, you can't change her mind easily. I think you should leave.”

Not wanting to waste time talking to her, Valerie turned to leave, but Phoebe grabbed her arm.

Despite her slender build, she had enough strength to prevent Valerie from leaving.

“Valerie, are you still upset about what happened to D