Unwanted Company

Vanessa stepped forward and affectionately linked arms with Desmond. "Everyone's been praising you for being so punctual today."

She cast a teasing glance at Valerie.

Valerie's eyes followed the delivery guy sprinting past in a helmet with fluffy fox ears, completely ignoring Vanessa and Desmond.

Miriam said, "Desmond, could you give Valerie a ride? I have a party to attend tonight, so I need to h