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Rumors lll

Author: M. Malik
last update Last Updated: 2025-04-14 23:03:27

Chapter 19

Lyra

Sunday night rolled in, and with it, my plan to kill the rumors before they killed me. I stood in front of my mirror, surveying my reflection. My dress—a red, body-hugging number with a plunging neckline and a slit up the side—was borderline scandalous. I paired it with strappy heels and bold makeup, my lips painted a daring crimson to match. If I was going to do this, I was going to do it right.

The judgmental gazes started the moment I met the girls outside the club. They didn’t say anything outright, but the sidelong glances and tight smiles spoke volumes.

“So,” one of them, Monica, said as we entered, her tone dripping with false cheer. “You’re really joining us, huh?”

“Why not?” I said, keeping my voice light. “A night out sounds like just what I need.”

We made our way inside, the bass-heavy music vibrating through the walls. The club was packed, the air thick with perfume, sweat, and the tang of alcohol. The girls stuck close together, but I could feel their eyes
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