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A look of concern crossed Guan to rise “Jazz, you okay?” he asked but his question was overshadowed by Toni’s huff

“Jazz, just put the godda me a hard time about this” Toni threw up her hands, then planted them on her hips

The walls of the diner began to close in on her as the three of them stared This was so out of character for her, this blatant refusal to help her boss without any kind of explanation, but what could she say?

I have horrifying scars all over my body

No, she’d rather die than admit the truth They could never see her shame Never discover what had been done by her own family member What her parents hadn’t prevented What she hadn’t been strong enough to stop

“I’ it on”

“I don’t—”

“Toni…” Screw circled Toni’s wrist with his hand, halting her tirade When she turned toward hi for a different reason She turned back, assessing Jazz and the expression of concern grew

“Jazz, you’re shaking What’s wrong?” Toni took one step forward, but Screw prevented her fro closer

She needed to run, but her damn feet just wouldn’t move

He slipped out of the booth and sloalked her way, Gumby hot on his heels

“Jazzy?” Screw said “You really are shaking And you’re sweating Why don’t you sit down, babe?” He reached for her and the second his fingertips made contact with her arm, she yanked it back with such force, she stumbled and would have fallen if it weren’t for the counter behind her

“I’h her heart jack has froo had bitten her in a hundred spots