#Chapter 161: Ex-Friends

Lamar wasn’t just talking to Joseph, they were both laughing and carrying on, like friends. Joseph placed his hand on Lamar’s shoulder as he emitted a full-bodied laugh. Lamar smirked at him, as if pleased with himself for eliciting such a reaction. The sight made me nervous. I wasn’t sure what to do. I couldn’t go over with Joseph there. I’d rather not have to deal with Joseph’s cruel deprecation tonight. I thought about turning back around and hiding in the bathroom. But how long could I stay there? Until the party was over? Surely someone would notice my absence? Lamar would eventually come looking for me. I wasn’t that much of a coward, but I also wasn’t brave enough to saunter over to them. So I waited near the bathroom door for them to finish talking and for Joseph to walk away. Then I made my way to Lamar. “There you are!” he said when he saw me. He held out his hand for me to take, but I didn’t. Not this time. “Was that Joseph I just saw you talking to?” I asked.