Chapter 123

The party had stretched longer than Lily expected. At first, she only planned to sit with Laura and a few others for a drink or two, but she had a naturally low tolerance for alcohol. By the end of the night, her cheeks were flushed, her head spinning slightly, and her steps not quite steady. Laura hooked an arm around her as they walked out of the bar together. The night air was cooler than inside, the faint smell of smoke and city dust mixing with perfume. “I think I should drop Lily home first,” Laura said, half-carrying, half-guiding her friend. Lily shook her head immediately, pressing her fingertips to her temple as if the motion could stop the dull throb starting behind her eyes. “No… no, I’m fine. I’ll just grab a taxi. Don’t worry about me.” Laura frowned. “Are you sure? You don’t look good.” “I’m good,” Lily said again, forcing a weak smile. “I’ve handled worse. Don’t worry, Laura.” Her words were brave, but the moment she looked around to wave for a taxi, her vision blurred.