“What I see in front of me,” I say coldly, “is a jealous and selfish person I mistakenly believed to be my best friend. Your objection seems less about my well-being and more about your own… undisclosed issues with Brielle.”

Rocki flinches as if I’ve slapped her. The anger in her eyes flickers, replaced by a wounded fury. “My own issues? Dean, I have your best interests at heart! Can’t you see that? She’s going to chew you up and spit you out!”

“Your definition of best ...