Alex checked his watch, noting how late it had grown. He had promised Tisha he'd come by, and she must have been waiting.
The thought of seeing her again, continuing what they'd started, stirred a restless energy beneath his calm exterior.
He glanced at Danny first, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Danny… it's getting late. I should probably head out. You take care of things here, alright?"
Danny caught the meaning instantly and let out a low chuckle.
Then Alex turned to Mike, mock-serious this time. "And Mike… don't have too much fun without me," he added with a playful smirk.
Mike laughed, shaking his head. "Yeah, yeah, I'll behave… unlike someone I know," he said, nudging Danny lightly, and Danny laughed again, the three of them sharing the easy camaraderie of friends who understood each other.
"Finally, he faced Linda, his expression composed, voice carrying a quiet warmth. "Mom… I'm heading out. I've got something I need to take care of."
