“That’s a tough one.” Amber stroked her chin. “I’d try to stay calm, even though it would be very hard, but shouting has never really solved any problems, so.” She gave Lou a small smile. “It’s going to be tough, but maybe if you have an open conversation with her, it will change things. Not only let her know who you are and have it all out in the open, but give her a chance to say something about why she behaved so appallingly.” Amber held up her hand. “Not that there exists any valid excuse for bullying, but she might want to tell you about steps she has undertaken to change. You never know.”

“Because these days she’s so friendly and charismatic and wrapping everyone around her finger so easily.” The words came out in a tone so hard they surprised Lou.

“Didn’t Micky say she thought Mia was flirting with you the other day?” Amber asked and shook her head.

“She can flirt all she wants.”

Amber quirked up her eyebrows. “Some people are just so clueless.”

“Thank you for inviting me over and pushing me to have this conversation. I’m not sure I’ll be thanking you for the next one you’re urging me to have, but this one has been good.”

“I don’t believe in bottling things up.” Amber straightened her back. “Speaking of being very open and such,” she said, making Lou wonder what would come next. “You are doing a really wonderful job at Glow. I’m so lucky to have you. I hope you’re happy at my tiny studio.”

“I love it.” Lou expelled a small sigh of relief. “And I’m glad you feel that way.”

“How about I pour us something stronger to celebrate your almost three months at Glow? No classes tomorrow, although I have been thinking about offering a Sunday class. We could alternate. If you’re up for that, of course.”

“No problem for me, boss.” Lou was glad for the extra opportunity to work—although teaching yoga never quite felt like work to her. It was her passion—and what had saved her from the spiral of negative thoughts she’d found herself in for the first part of her twenties.

Chapter Seven

Lou didn’t only not know what to do with herself, but she also didn’t know where to go. Glow consisted of the room where the classes took place on the ground floor with a locker room next to it and the office on the floor above. She had opted not to be present for Amber and Micky’s Google ads meeting with Mia. Not only because she didn’t know the first thing about online advertising, but mainly because, even though the office was roomy and light, it felt too small and constricted for her and Mia to spend time in together.