Andrew's friends looked at him the moment Don mentioned wanting to talk.
Then Don added—
"In private."
His eyes shifted toward them as he said it.
Not aggressive.
Not raised.
Just direct.
It was enough.
One of the men cleared his throat. Another gave a stiff smile.
"Well, we'll let you two catch up."
"Important matters and all that."
They began excusing themselves almost immediately, glasses lifted in half-hearted farewells. Their movements were a little too quick. Shoulders slightly hunched as they stepped away.
Andrew didn't stop them.
"Yeah," he said, forcing steadiness into his voice. "I'll catch up with you later."
By the time they disappeared into the crowd near the bar, only Ashly remained at his side.
Don's gaze flicked to her briefly.
Andrew noticed.
His arm moved around her shoulders, pulling her a fraction closer.
"What you want to say to me," Andrew said firmly, "you can say in front of her."
Don resisted the urge to scoff.
He simply nodded once.
