Chapter: 748

As the four ladies gathered, the night was just beginning to unfold.

Joanna's suggestion cut through the chatter. “How about we play Truth or Dare?"

The memory of the last time they played this game brought a blush to Norah's cheeks, which went unnoticed under the neon glow.

Alice and Susanna were quick to agree.

“There are too many people in the booth area," Joanna observed, scanning their surroundings. "Let's go play in a private room upstairs."

Thanks to Norah's VIP status, they soon found themselves in a secluded room, a perfect retreat for their game.

Joanna, ever the extrovert, laid out the rules with enthusiasm.

“We're all in this together, no cheating! If you can't do the dare, you drink. Let's get started-I'll spin first."

She set an empty beer bottle twirling on the table. It spun rapidly before slowing down, finally pointing directly at Alice.

Joanna clapped her hands, smiling broadly. “Alice, truth or dare?"

"Truth," Alice replied.

"What are you most afraid of happening?"

Alice paused, considering her response. “I have many fears. Do I need to list them all?"

“Just one or two will do," Joanna prompted, curious but casual.

“I'm afraid of losing friends, dying unexpectedly one day, and falling in love..." Alice listed her fears, each one revealing a deeper layer of her anxieties.

Alice spewed a cascade of concerns in a single breath.

Joanna cut her off briskly. "Stop, Alice, just stop. You're worried about accidents, aren't you?"

Alice gave a small nod. "You could say that."

Her fears were many, and she offered prayers for good luck each day.

"Let's focus on the fun. Your turn to spin the bottle," Joanna encouraged, regretting her earlier question.

"Okay."

The bottle pointed next, to no one's surprise, at Susanna. The history between Alice and Susanna was rich with shared days and deep familiarity.

"Susanna, what will it be? Truth or dare?"

The glint in Susanna's eyes was unmistakable. "Dare."