Americus possessed an almost supernatural talent for dragging Silver into social disasters that masqueraded as harmless entertainment, and Saturday night's hockey team celebration promised to be no exception to that established pattern.
"This is absolutely a team solidarity thing," Americus chirped with characteristic enthusiasm while fluffing her carefully arranged curls as they climbed the wooden steps leading to the hockey house. The sound of her heels against the weathered boards created a staccato rhythm that competed with the bass line already vibrating through the windows. "Completely mandatory attendance for anyone who wants to maintain proper social standing. Plus, they're providing free pizza, which basically makes this a public service."
Riley muttered under her breath with the weary wisdom of someone who'd learned to be suspicious of Americus's social engineering projects, "It's never just about pizza."
