"If there's a ball happening," McKenna said, voice like iron, "then this husband of yours will be going with you."
Eloise's mouth fell open.
When he'd first stepped in, she'd felt something tighten in her chest, like her carefully built facade might crack. Never, not even in her wildest thoughts, had she imagined he would suggest this.
Mary could only blink at him.
He stood like a shadow at the door, face drawn in a deep scowl, eyes fixed on her with such intensity it made her flinch, even though she hadn't said a word. But the moment those words left his lips, she could do nothing but stare.
"You must know, it's no ball for married men," Eloise said quickly, clutching Mary with trembling hands. "You're not invited."
McKenna didn't blink. His gaze stayed fixed on his wife. "Then my wife won't go either."
Eloise scowled so deeply her whole face scrunched. "I haven't agreed that you're my friend's husband," she snapped. "You've yet to pass the best friend's husband check."
