Andrew turned back to face Francesca and the others.

Natasha spoke sympathetically, "Darling, Joe might not be on our side, but he's not really a bad person either. Why did you have to be so harsh on him?"

Francesca nodded in agreement. "Exactly, honey. What you said back there was honestly pretty hurtful. I'm afraid he's going to feel terrible about it."

Andrew sneered. "I was just telling the truth. Is that somehow wrong? Besides, since when do I need to worry about his feelings?"

Aspen crossed her arms and twisted them behind her back. Then, she curled her body and threaded her arms through from below her feet. Her body was incredibly flexible and limber.

She took a moment to address Andrew, saying, "I think you went too far. Joe is dealing with heartbreak and crushing defeat right now. It's not a bad thing to show a little empathy!"

Andrew snorted, half amused, half annoyed. "Wow, what is this? You're all turning against me now? Siding with an outsider to scold me? Today'