Paula’s Strain
Paula, standing off to the side, managed a smile, though it barely concealed the tightness in her eyes.
Her attempt to remain poised was palpable as she clutched her purse a little tighter. I could almost feel the cogs turning in her head, recalculating her steps after seeing my confidence undimmed by her schemes.
Her facade of calm was cracking, but she held it together—barely.