The sun was aggressively bright and hot as Aria and Zoe strolled along the paved pathways of the city park.
Aria was wearing a black, fitted long-sleeve crop top and a pair of dark cargo pants. Ten yards behind them, maintaining a perfect distance, Richard shadowed their every move. He wore his usual suit, looking like a Terminator on a leisurely afternoon stroll.
"Aria," Zoe asked, her voice dropping into a suspicious whisper. "Why are we walking toward the cemetery? Please tell me we are not doing anything that is going to invite a poltergeist into my life. My vibes are currently very fragile."
Aria let out a bright, airy laugh. "Relax, Zoe. We aren't robbing a grave."
"Then why are we going in there?!"
"It's a shortcut," Aria lied effortlessly, pulling her best friend closer by the elbow. "By the way, I have premium tea, and I need a sounding board."
Zoe's anxiety instantly went up in smoke. "Spill it."
Aria leaned in, pitching her voice low so Richard wouldn't hear.
