Chapter 339

Madison

The cab smelled like pine air freshener and faint cigarettes, an assault on my senses after the sterile environment of Knight Industries.

I leaned my head against the cool window, watching Manhattan blur past. My phone buzzed in my purse, pulling me from my trance.

Hazel’s name flashed on the screen. I swiped to answer.

“Please tell me you’re not still at work,” she said without preamble.

“I’m in a cab, actually,” I replied, stifling a yawn. The Manhattan Project had consumed my day, leaving my brain feeling like mush.

“Perfect timing! I need you to go shopping with me for my company party. The one I told you about yesterday? I found this incredible boutique in SoHo that’s having a sale.”

I glanced at my watch. Almost six. “Now? I’m exhausted, Hazel.”

“Yes, now. The sale ends today, and I need your brutally honest opinion on dresses. Plus, you need something too.”

“I never said I was going to your party.”

“Yo