At Gina’s
The energy at Gina's bar pulsed with laughter and music, but at the table where Anastasia and Benedict sat, an undercurrent of tension crackled in the air. Ana maintained her polite demeanor, yet a hint of annoyance lingered just beneath the surface. Benedict, seated across from her, wore an infuriatingly confident smirk, relishing the unease between them.
Claire leaned in to catch Ana’s eye. “You okay? You seem a bit distant.”
“I’m fine,” Ana replied, forcing a smile. “Just enjoying the ambiance.” Her gaze flicked to Benedict, who raised an eyebrow, his expression challenging.
“Ambiance is one way to put it,” Benedict interjected, his voice dripping with condescension. “Though it must be hard to focus on the surroundings when you’re so wrapped up in your own little world.”
