Lorie's fake composure cracked. Her voice rose, tinged with panic. "How can you say that? We are family. You can't just cut me off like that. I know I hurt you before, but I can change. I will change. Please, Anne, give me a chance."
Anne watched her keenly. Lorie's words sounded sincere, but something felt off. Her sudden humility, the eagerness—it didn't sit right. Anne was sure Lorie had something on her mind.
"I know you don't trust me," Lorie pressed forward. "But I'll prove I mean it. Let me buy you lunch. I am not asking for forgiveness—just one small step to make up for what I did."
But Anne didn't drop her guard. Not even for a second. She didn't believe a word of Lorie's act—but something told her it was worth seeing how far this charade would go.
"Fine," Anne said coolly. "I'll give you one chance. But if you try anything, don't expect mercy."
