The night deepened, the air thick with laughter and the sharp scent of alcohol. Bottles clinked, glasses emptied, refilled, emptied again. The mood had shifted after Jinzo's exit, lighter, looser, but edged with a reckless energy. Nash watched it unfold, his mind clear despite the haze settling over the room.
Sarra was curled against him, her head resting on his shoulder, breathing soft and steady. Her cheeks were flushed pink, lips slightly parted. Drunk, asleep. He brushed a stray curl from her forehead, careful not to wake her.
Across the low table, Rei was leaning close to Alicia, her voice a low, honeyed murmur. She traced the rim of Alicia's glass with a fingertip.
"Come on, princess," Rei purred, sliding a fresh shot toward her. "One more won't hurt. Loosen up those pretty lips."
Alicia promptly waved a dismissive hand, almost knocking over her drink.
"Oh God... get out of here, lesbian!"
Rei chuckled. She poured another shot, pushing it into Alicia's hand.
