"No 'buts,' my dear bestie! We've got ten days before I get tossed into the fryer! Are you really okay watching me turn into a ghost tempura?"
Amelia looked torn, but she finally nodded. "Don't worry, Sherry. I'll get the money."
Before I could even respond, she went straight downstairs, hailed a taxi, and headed toward the Wright family villa. I floated along behind her, like a very determined helium balloon.
The moment we reached the gate, laughter and music spilled from inside. There was a full-blown party.
Amelia pressed her lips together and pushed open the door.
Instantly, silence ensued. The whole villa went dead quiet.
Especially Janine—she jumped up from her seat beside Madam Wright, her eyes instantly turned red.
"Sister, I thought you weren't coming home today! I only sat in your seat for a bit—I'll move right now!"
She hurried to the far end of the table, limping dramatically, looking pitiful as if she had been bullied.
I was furious. "Where did this pretentious little bitch come from? Her acting is poor, only fools will believe it!"
But of course, the Wrights loved this act.
Kenneth, Amelia's brother, slammed his cutlery down and dragged Janine back to her seat.