Gina was fuming, fists clenched, like she might explode any second.
Kendrick's jaw tensed, but he forced a stiff smile.
And everyone else had that sly smile plastered all over their faces. Even Nadia.
Zara turned sharply to Ace, her voice low and angry. "Be rude. That's what they expect."
Ace locked eyes with the driver and gave a slight nod.
Finally, the bus pulled away.
Zara waited until Ace climbed into the car, slammed the door shut, and then opened it again so she could get in.
"I don't know what's so special about this that they're all 'aww-ing,'" she muttered while adjusting her seatbelt.
Ace glanced at her, shook his head in disbelief, and gestured to the chauffeur to drive.
For a few minutes, silence hung heavy between them. Zara pulled out her phone and called Nana first to explain.
"How I wish we knew sooner," Nana complained. "I'd have packed some snacks for you."
"I'll manage, Nana, bye" Zara said, already dialing the school.
