"Oh wow, look who decided to show up," Jessica muttered under her breath to Emma as Hailey pushed through the glass doors of the training facility. "And she looks like she got hit by a truck."
Emma elbowed her sharply. "Be nice. Something is obviously wrong."
Hailey's eyes were red and swollen from crying. She had barely managed to apply enough concealer to hide the worst of it.
The familiar smell of rubber mats and equipment polish filled her nostrils, but today it brought no comfort.
She walked slowly toward the changing room. Every step felt like she was walking through water.
The junior stunt performers were already gathering in the main training area. Their voices created a low buzz of conversation.
Clara looked up from where she was stretching on the mat.
"Morning, Hailey," she called out, her voice carrying concern. "Are you ready for today's session?"
"Do I look ready?" Hailey asked weakly, then caught herself. "I mean... yes. Ready as I'll ever be."
