[center][color=teal][h2]Jessamyn "Jess" Bailey[/h2][/color][/center]

Despite the warmth the man showed, little hints reminded Jess that it was just that - a show. That sudden flare of anger from Roxy at the mention of her full name made Jess' own jaw clench. Roxy's father probably knew full well she hated it. As he went on to explain her brother's absence, his excuse rang false.

[color=teal]"It's ok,"[/color] Jess simply said, although she wondered what the real reason must be. She didn't want to follow, but shuffled forward out of sheer obligation. The closer she drew to the house, the more it seemed like a prison rather than a mansion - Roxy's sentiment, without a doubt.

The businessman's next words almost made her stop in her tracks. Her lips flattened as she fought the urge to shake her head. No, she couldn't drag her mom into this. Even if he just wanted to gain her trust, it was too big a risk - and if she saw through the facade, getting the authorities involved could make things worse. Some people got away with their crimes all too easily.

Jess racked her mind for a reply that wouldn't provoke him, wouldn't make him want to get back at her and Roxy in some sly way. [color=teal]"That's... kind of you,"[/color] she muttered, each word too flat to be sincere. There was nothing kind about this man, that much was clear already.