[Leave first and wait for me at the villa. Watch your expressions—don’t let something this small make you lose face in public. If the paparazzi catch anything, I won’t forgive you.]
Out of habit, I pulled a mirror from my bag, checked my expression, and forced myself to smile before quickly leaving the venue.
I circled the villa several times before finally daring to go inside. When the old clock in the living room struck twelve, Avery stumbled in, reeking of alcohol.
As soon as she saw me, she threw herself into my arms, whining, “Dennis, I’m so exhausted today. Can you make me some hangover soup? Love you.”
The overwhelming scent of men's cologne on her made me feel nauseous. I pushed her off me and said, “I’m a bit tired too. I don’t feel like moving.”
Hearing this, Avery shot up from the couch like a spring. She raised her hand and slapped me hard across the left cheek, then pointed at me and screamed, her voice cracking, “Dennis, what’s your problem? Didn’t I already message you and explain everything? I told you not to let something this minor make you lose face! What’s with your attitude now?”