Chapter 69

The weight of Melissa’s disappointment hung in the air as I stood there, my heart pounding in my chest. I took a deep breath, preparing myself to tell her the truth about why I had really come.

“Melissa,” I began, my voice shaky, “I need to be honest with you. I didn’t come here for a loan. Vince and I aren’t in a dire financial situation requiring hundreds of thousands of dollars. I lied, and I’m sorry.”

Melissa’s eyes narrowed, a mixture of confusion and frustration dancing in them. “What? Why would you lie about something like that, Laura? What’s the real reason you’re here?”

I glanced away, unable to meet her gaze. “Vince and I have been struggling to find stable jobs. We thought being near you might open up opportunities. I didn’t know how to ask for help without sounding desperate, so I made up the financial crisis.”

Melissa’s expression shifted from confusion to anger. “You played with my emotions, Laura. You made me believe you were in trouble, and I