The gown was fabulous. She rose and tied up the laces along Veronica’s back. Riley’s costume was great too: a black tuxedo. He looked quite handsome and hadn’t hit anyone in ages. This was her favorite stop so far, and since things were going so well, maybe this was it. Nearby, the stagehand escorted a group of elegantly dressed patrons through the back-stage area. One of the females paused by Chase, licked her lips, and said, “Join us?” Megan stared. What would he do? Her stomach tightened. Tell her no. Chase left. Megan yanked at the ribbon, wanting to call him back for a million reasons, but she didn’t. She tied off the bow and peeped around the curtain. He had taken a seat in their box and accepted a glass of champagne. The toast tasted bitter from here. The Director clapped her hands. “Curtains, everyone!” Riley, in character, leaned against a fake front door. On the other side, Veronica stood in a fake living room. “I know she’s in there,” Riley sang in character.
