#Chapter 237: Jazz, Candles, & Animosity

Abby Karl and I settle into our seats across from Ethan and Gianna, and although my heart is racing in Gianna’s presence, Karl’s knee touching mine beneath the table is enough to keep me grounded. Gianna takes in my appearance from across the table. “Interesting dress,” she says, her gaze flicking over me with a hint of disdain behind her eyes. “Is that velvet?” I pause, glancing down at myself. Now I want to feel more self-conscious than before, but deep down I know that Gianna is just trying to get under my skin. Karl gives my leg a brief squeeze under the table, and that gives me a boost of confidence. “Yes, it is,” I say, meeting her gaze once more. “I just bought it, actually. You like it?” Gianna simply shrugs. “It’s nice, I suppose,” she says before looking away, still swirling her drink around in her glass. “So,” Ethan suddenly says, seemingly oblivious—or perhaps willfully ignorant—to the tension, “Abby, how have you been?” I exchange a glance with Karl, w