Justin squeezed Laura's arm reassuringly, his touch gentle but firm. "Don't worry about me. I can handle this."
"But..." Laura's protest died on her lips.
Paul's voice dripped with false concern. "Look how protective Laura is of her boyfriend. It's just a friendly game. We won't push him too hard." He exchanged knowing looks with the others.
"Come on, Laura, lighten up!"
"It's a celebration. A few drinks won't hurt anyone!"
Laura fell silent, reading the determination in Justin's eyes.
"So, what are the rules?" Justin asked, his smile unwavering.
"Simple enough," Paul replied with an air of mystery. "Roll the dice, compare numbers. Loser drinks."
"Sounds fair to me." Justin grinned.
Paul settled onto the sofa with practiced ease, arranging six dice in a perfect line before coverin
