(Michelle Lui's POV)
By the time we exited the Halloween boutique, the sky had already dimmed into a soft lavender dusk — the kind that made all the streetlights look prettier than usual. Our bags were filled with costume pieces (hidden, of course, because surprise reveal tomorrow!), and my feet were half-ready to declare war on my shoes.
Vince, naturally, was the loudest one leaving the store.
"BRO, my costume is going to SLAY. I'm telling you—SLAY. You all aren't ready."
Jeff didn't look impressed. "Your costume is probably just an excuse to be shirtless."
"EXACTLY. It's the artistry, Jeffrey."
Kate sighed. "You're hopeless."
"I'm SEXY, not hopeless."
"Same thing."
Their banter echoed behind us as we approached the sidewalk, where the black van Andy booked waited for us.
Lara glanced at her phone. "Andy said he's already back at the penthouse. Something about reading a script."
"Actor things," Vince nodded sagely. "He's leveling up."
My lips twitched.
