Angel tightly clutched a black purse studded with fake diamonds in both hands. She stepped into the hall with awkwardness hanging over her shoulders. Half of her heart regretted her choice to attend that dinner, but the other half of her heart told her to come, so she could tell everyone that she was okay.

"Angel, it's great to have you here tonight."

“Phoebe. Thank you for having me.”

Phoebe removed her arms from Xander and moved to hug Angel. Phoebe looked very cheerful and beautiful in ...