"Not a question," Willow said. "Noted."
"I've been busy," she added evenly.
"And before that?" he asked.
"Also busy."
A low exhale — almost a laugh. "You usually return calls."
"Not always."
"No," he agreed, voice lower now. "Not always."
Her jaw tightened. You don't get to be gentle with me.
"Is this the issue?" she asked. "Because if it is, it belongs outside this room."
He let silence work — cool, deliberate. Then:
"You should have told me about Christy's invitation."
The words pressed a bruise she'd hidden well.
Her spine stayed straight. "There was nothing to tell. She invited several people."
"She invited us," he said, precise. "Together."
Of course he knew. Power never waited for permission to be informed.
"I'm not planning to go," Willow said.
A flicker crossed his eyes — amusement edged with something darker.
"I'm Miles's best friend — and you're my girlfriend. We have to go."
