Shadows in the Rain

Austin was a self-proclaimed expert at spotting manipulative women.

He couldn't stand my tearful best friend, Chloe.

"Her posture is too fragile, her eyes are too alluring, and she cries at the drop of a hat. She's toxic," he would say.

I always patiently defended her.

"Chloe is just timid, Austin. She's not a bad person."

Austin would pinch my cheek, a mix of exasperation and affection in his eyes. "Silly Alyssa. I'm terrified that one day someone will sell you out, and you'll be thanking them for it. Good thing I have a solid moral compass. I'd never betray you in this lifetime."