that once he was established at work, he’d take me there to celebrate.

Even after I had enough money, I waited for him instead of going on my own.

This hope had been worn down over time,

and seeing that takeout finally extinguished it.

I lowered my eyes, a mocking smile tugging at my lips.

After comforting his friend, Ryan instinctively looked for the person who called the police.

When he saw me, he assumed I was there for the interview.

"Well, well, Claire the journalist, still working, huh? Haven’t they fired you yet?"

He tried to act cool, whistling at me,

but I shut him down with a glare.

When he finally realized I was the one who sent his friend to jail,

his face softened in an attempt to appease me.

"Claire, he was just looking out for me…"

I couldn’t help but laugh at his attempt.

Looking out for you?

Since when does that justify harassment and groping?

Some people only realize the sting of a slap when it lands on their face!

I had acted in self-defense, and his friend had committed sexual harassment. He’d likely stay in jail for a few days.

I leaned in close, my voice dripping with sarcasm,

"If groping me is his way of looking out for you, then you’re pretty cheap, aren’t you?"