I introduced Emily and Jennifer, and almost immediately, Emily and Kate fell into an easy, animated conversation, their laughter blending with the hum of the crowd. Jennifer joined in, her social grace effortless, but I caught the way her eyes flicked between me and Kate, a hint of something dark and hungry in her gaze.
Tom leaned in, his voice low. "Mike, let's go get the drinks," he said, nodding toward the counter where beer and cocktails were being served. "I could use a break from the small talk—and I think you could too."
I glanced back at Emily and Jennifer. Emily was already deep in conversation with Kate, her face animated, her hands gesturing as she talked.
Jennifer, however, caught my eye, her gaze lingering on me for a second too long, her lips parted just slightly. "I'll be right back," I told them, my voice rough. "Going to grab us some drinks."
Jennifer's response was a slow, deliberate nod, her eyes dropping to my lips before she turned back to the conversation.
