The reminder caught in Cecilia’s throat.

She had said that. She believed it, too. But this wasn’t exactly a friend. He was a stranger. He could’ve softened it just a little.

“Fine. You’re right,” Cecilia conceded.

Calvin’s grin returned instantly. “Then let’s keep playing.”

He slipped into the empty seat, his hands moving confidently over the controls. Within minutes, he’d won back every token the flustered girl had lost.

Before Cecilia could gather her winnings, Vivian reappeared, dragging several overstuffed sacks brimming with plush toys.

Gasps rippled across the arcade. Kids tugged on their parents’ sleeves, pointing at Vivian like she was Santa in the middle of July.