“We don’t need anyone with a nasty attitude ruining our day.”
Heather’s bravado shrinks away completely. She glances around the room, her friends retreating, no longer laughing or providing support. “I… I didn’t mean anything by it,” she mutters, though her fight has evaporated.
She knows it’s over.
I step closer, not to gloat, but to bring closure. “Heather, it’s fine. But maybe next time, think before you speak.” My tone is steady, devoid of malice—just the truth.
She stares at me, wide-eyed with disbelief and shock.
For the first time, I believe, Heather Parker is left speechless.
With that, they gather their things and scurry out the door without another word. The bell jingles above as they leave, and the atmosphere lightens, as if a burden I hadn’t realized I was carrying has been lifted.
The place buzzes with excitement, and a smile spreads across my face uncontrollably. Jack winks at me, and Sarah smirks.
“Now that was something,” she shakes her head. “Talk about instant karma.”
I chuckle, feeling a swell of pride within me. Years ago, I would have done anything to escape the likes of Heather.
But now? Now I stand here, surrounded by people who value me for who I am, in a place that belongs to me.
“Karma,” I say, laughing softly, “served with a side of justice.”
