When Vera Xavier saw the look on Susan Caldwell's face, the corners of her mouth lifted into a slight smile. She just loved seeing Susan look so unsettled.
So she stood up, a bright smile on her face, and patted Susan Caldwell's shoulder. "Just a friendly reminder," she said. "I'm a creditor who always keeps her word. No matter who owes me, I always come to collect when the time is up. So you'd better get ready!"
A storm raged in Susan Caldwell's heart, but she forced herself to remain calm. She even managed to squeeze out a smile. "I don't like owing people either. I'll be waiting for you to collect."
Vera Xavier smiled back. "Excellent!"
Susan Caldwell turned to Skylar Crowe and the others. "We're leaving!"
Leo Wright shot a worried glance at Susan Caldwell, then turned to look at Nathaniel Nathan, who had remained silent the entire time. He then quietly fell into step behind Susan.
