Penelope's POV
The bass thundered through my chest as I nursed my third cocktail, watching Chloe practically throw herself at the bartender who seemed far more interested in checking his own reflection than acknowledging her existence.
"Chloe, seriously, that guy is having a full-blown love affair with himself," I called out over the music. "You'd have better luck with the mirror."
She spun around, cheeks flushed from embarrassment and alcohol. "Easy for you to say when you've got that gorgeous Valentian wrapped around your finger. Speaking of which, where's your prince charming tonight?"
"Dominic is handling business in Ostaria." I popped an olive into my mouth, shrugging like it didn't matter. "Besides, we're not exactly joined at the hip."
"Right," Chloe snorted, sliding back into her seat. "Just casual fun between two consenting adults who happen to spend every free moment together."
