Brent’s POV
I sat stiffly in Betty’s living room, glancing at the clock every few minutes. I’d tried calling her at least a dozen times but there was no answer. I’m worrying. She’d promised we’d meet for breakfast but she’d been missing since last night. I couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling that something was off.
Jeanette paced the room, her expression growing darker by the minute. “This is just like her. Always doing whatever she wants without thinking about anyone else.” She crossed her arms.
Just as I was about to say something, the door opened, and Stacey strolled in like she owned the place. Her sharp eyes flicked around the room before landing on me, a curious smile tugging at her lips.
“Hey, Brent,” she said, dropping into an armchair with casual ease. “You look like you’ve been stood up.”
I forced a polite smile, but my worry bled through. “Just waiting for Betty. She hasn’t come home yet, and no one’s heard from her.”
Stacey raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a smirk. “Oh, really? Well, I wouldn’t be too surprised. I mean, Betty always did have a habit of sneaking around.”
I looked at her, taken aback. “What are you talking about?”
She leaned in, clearly enjoying the moment. “Let’s just say she’s not as innocent as everyone thinks. If you knew who she’d been spending her time with, you wouldn’t be so surprised she’s not here.”
My chest tightened. “Who?”
Stacey leaned back, her grin turning coy. “Oh, you’ll find out soon”
I clenched my jaw, trying to keep my frustration in check, but her tone was setting me on edge. Before I could press her further, she shifted her gaze back to me, her expression softening, though the sharpness in her eyes didn’t fade.
“You know, Betty’s mentioned you,” she said, her voice almost friendly now.
“She did?”
“Yeah.” Stacey studied me. “She didn’t mention how loyal you are, though. I mean, here you are, waiting, worried sick about her. That’s rare.”
I shifted uncomfortably. “Well, yeah… I’ve known her forever. I just… look out for her.”
Stacey smiled, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Seems like you’re the only one who does.” She tilted her head. “It’s a shame, though she doesn’t value what she has.”
Just then, the front door creaked open, and Betty stepped inside. Her hair was slightly disheveled, and her cheeks were flushed, clearly caught off guard by the sight of everyone waiting for her.