"Ahem."
Emily cleared her throat meaningfully.
It was only then that Nnenna realized she hadn't properly introduced Emily to anyone. She turned around with a sheepish look.
"Oh, guys! This is my friend and study partner, Emily."
She gestured at her. "Emily, meet my big brother Carl, his best friend Arthur, and my…"
Nnenna paused, suddenly unsure what to call Ava. Her mouth opened and closed.
"…This is Ava," she finally said, voice trailing off.
Ava's smile froze, then fell into a slight frown. Why didn't she call me her sister? Or at least her friend? she wondered, feeling a tiny sting in her chest.
It's because you're always so mean to her, whispered a small voice in her conscience. Ava swallowed, unable to deny it.
Meanwhile, Arthur raised an eyebrow, distinctly dissatisfied. Just Carl's best friend? That's all I am to her?
Emily, on the other hand, had her mouth hanging open in pure shock.
