"Why isn't Madelyn here, Kevin?" Mya asked.

Kevin replied with a hint of nonchalance, "Ms. Jent's downstairs, playing golf with Mr. Jardin. If you want to see her, go on down. Mr. Jardin said his company's taking care of the situation at the birthday party."

Mya said, "Thanks for letting me know."

Kevin nodded, "No problem."

Luke called out, trying to make things right, "Mya..."

Lifting her dress slightly, Mya shot him one last look, "I told you you'd face the consequences." She walked off, leaving a chattering crowd behind.

Luke's family swarmed him, bombarding him with questions, "What went down, Luke? Why did Mya bolt? You know, our families had your back, helped with your college needs, and in return, you promised us a house."

"Are you guys still getting hitched?"

"Man, Luke, I was waiting for a house before getting married. Now, without one, what do I do?"

"And these gems? They were supposed to be a safety net for my daughter's future. Luke, you better not bail on us."

F