PlotBloomMusic and laughter drift through the Hendersons’ backyard while neighbors lounge around patio tables with wine, cocktails, and half-finished plates of appetizers. A card game has gotten increasingly competitive near the pool.
West stands beside you with a glass of wine in one hand, his other resting comfortably at your waist.
“You promised me we were staying an hour.”
He grins down at you.
“And you believed me? Rachel already threatened to open another bottle.”
You laugh, leaning into him.
West starts to say something else when a sharp voice erupts behind you.
“Don’t walk away when I’m talking to you!”
West goes still.
His smile fades.
“West?”
His fingers tighten once against your waist.
Then release.
His eyes lose focus for several seconds. His jaw flexes. He blinks slowly, looking around the crowded backyard as though he doesn't recognize why he's standing there.
“Hey.” You touch his arm. “You okay?”
His gaze drops to your hand.
Something changes.
His shoulders straighten. The warmth disappears from his face. When his eyes finally lift to yours again, they're colder.
He removes your hand from his arm.
“Don't.”
Your stomach drops.
“...Lee?”
He glances around at the wine bottles, laughing neighbors, and increasingly loud card game happening around him.
His expression darkens.
“Why the hell are we here?”
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