Chapter 56. A VIP Coming

CHARLOTTE

Olive leaned forward, unfazed by Emma’s explanations.

“Perfect. Good way to meet influential people, right, Char?”

She nudged me so hard I almost spilled my drink.

I simply nodded.

Emma narrowed her eyes at me.

“So, Charlotte… have you ever even worn a bikini before?”

My whole body locked.

The truth screamed inside me:

Never. Not once.

But Olive’s hopeful eyes were on me, I couldn’t afford to disappoint her.

So I forced myself to laugh.

“Of course. Even at the beach, which is in public. I mean… it’s not like I’m an alien. Plenty of people are built like me too. What an odd question.”

Emma’s face didn’t budge. She tilted her head, skeptical.

“Mhm. You sure? Because if you’re not comfortable, maybe don’t force it. You’ll stand out—and not in the way you want. I’d hate for you to ruin your vacation by doing something you’re clearly not ready for.”

Her words stung sharp, like little needl