Just like that, Archie straightened up. Replacing his sneer, he let out a radiant smile.
"Troy, that's all settled then," he chirped. "Margaux's throwing me a homecoming party. Big one. All the top names in Metropolis will be there. You should come. I've got a gift just for you."
I glanced past him toward Gerard, who was now laughing with Margaux as if none of this had happened and as if they hadn't just cheered while my dignity was stomped into the floor.
Holding myself back, I forced myself to nod. "Sure."
We stepped outside, and the evening air felt too cold for the season.
Kenneth followed close behind, his voice tight with anger. "Troy, they've crossed every line. You're really going to let them walk all over you like that?"
I gave her a small smile, patting the back of his hand.
"Kenneth," I said quietly, "I spent ten years on the street. You think I'm the kind of guy who lets things slide? They said they've got a gift for me. That's fine. But at Archie's homecoming party?"
I met her eyes.
"I'll bring one of my own."
...
Later that week, the night of the homecoming party finally arrived.