Chapter 93: Alice
Alice, once a tormentor during Abby’s formative years, now stood before her, a stark reminder of the pain and anguish she had inflicted. She was one of the best friends of Abby’s cousin, and together they had made her life a living hell.
Just then, the receptionist’s eyes fell on Abby, a flicker of recognition crossing her features. With a quick nod, she excused herself from Alice’s tirade and approached Abby with a sense of reverence.
"Mrs. Quinn?" she asked, her voice tinged with deference. "We’ve been waiting for you. Your spa day is prepared. Please, let me guide you."
Alice, now aware of Abby’s presence, seethed with frustration, her anger bubbling to the surface. The reception area became charged with tension, the clash of past and present colliding in a dramatic confrontation.
As Abby followed the receptionist, a sense of tranquility began to settle around her. However, the peace was short-lived as Alice, driven by malice, stepped in front of Abby, blocking her path. A snort of disdain escaped Alice’s lips as she appraised Abby from head to toe, her eyes filled with disgust.
"Mrs. Quinn?" Alice sneered, her voice dripping with mockery. "You? What happened to that weird nickname we used to call you back in school? Oh, that’s right, ’Freckles-Face-Freak’ Still rocking those, still looking ugly I see."
Abby’s composure wavered for a moment, the memories of childhood taunts surfacing. Yet, she remained silent, refusing to let Alice’s words pierce through her newfound strength.
Alice, reveling in her perceived superiority, continued her verbal assault. "Didn’t you run away from home?" she jeered. "Rumor has it you disappeared without a trace. Do you know your dear uncle is looking for you?"
A flicker of vulnerability passed through Abby’s eyes, but she steadied herself, refusing to be dragged back into the shadows of her past.