I looked around, feeling more desperate as the minutes passed, listening to Jojo go on about Liam and his invitation for her to meet him in North Carolina.

A shot was placed in front of me, and I turned to thank whoever it was. My smile faded when I saw a platinum pompadour and sweet grin.

“You look like you’ve had better days, Ellie,” Paige said, straightening one of her enormous gold leaf earrings.

I faced forward. “Go away, Paige.”

“That’s not very nice. I just bought you a drink.”

I craned my neck at her. “My sister won’t speak to me because of you.”

Jojo leaned forward. “I can’t believe you did that, Paige. What the fuck were you thinking?”

“I wasn’t,” she said without apology. “I was drunk and maybe a lot high.”

Jojo wrinkled her nose. “What happened to you? You used to be so sweet. Now you’re full of holes and covered in cheap artwork.”

“Go fuck a kangaroo, Jojo.”

“You’re a cunt rag, Paige. Your fake, innocent smile fools no one,” Jojo said, turning to watch the television overhead.

Paige seemed unfazed, resting her cheek on her palm. “I wasn’t trying to be mean. I didn’t realize it was a secret.”

“If you’re going to pull something that heinous, at least own it. I’d respect you more,” I said, grabbing the shot and throwing it down my throat.

“Want another one?” she asked, arching an eyebrow. She had plans for me, and I didn’t care what they were. I just wanted to get drunk and not care for a night.

“It depends. What did you put in that shot?”

“Nothing fun, unless you’re making a request.”

“I’ll just take another drink.”

Paige signaled to Annie, who nodded.

“Where’s your boy?” Paige asked, lifting her leg to climb onto the stool to my right. She was wearing tight jeans and a tank top under a flannel shirt, showing off her curves and cleavage all while staying warm.

“Not here,” I said, throwing back the next shot Annie sat before me.

“Hey,” Paige said with a giggle. “Wait for me.” She lifted her chin and the dark liquid left the glass, emptying down her throat. She placed the glass upside down and slid it toward Annie, ordering two doubles.

I drank them as fast as Annie could make them. Finally, Paige cut me off. “You’re going to drink my paycheck. I came in with a fifty, and it’s gone.”

“Thank you,” I said, holding up my empty tumbler.

“Pace yourself,” Jojo said. “When Dad falls off the wagon, it’s easier for him to climb back on without a hangover.”

“I’m already hungover,” I said. “Or I was … six drinks ago.”

“You’re keeping track?” Paige asked. “That’s impressive.”

Jojo snorted. “Only counting to six would be impressive to you, Miley Cyrus.”