4
Sarah
The next morning, we’re asked to pair off with someone different. I’m relieved, because Smith shot my partnership idea down so hard. Coming on the heels of the Martin breakup, it’s a hard pill to swallow.
So I look around the room for another partner. This time I want someone nonthreatening and someone who isn’t just… a jerk.
My eyes land on a woman about twenty years older than me with long black hair, a tattered white shirt, and black leather pants. She raises her eyebrows, meeting my gaze.
An invitation, I think.
I walk over to her, guitar in hand. “Do you want to partner up?”
A corner of her mouth turns up in a smile. “Sure. I’m Mellie.”
She sticks out her hand. I set my guitar at my feet and then shake her hand firmly. I can feel her eyes on me, her gaze measuring.
I
