.
.
.
ELEANOR
My laughter filled the air as me and Lena continued to share secrets in our little corner of the party. The conversation was flowing smoothly, both of us relaxing with our drinks, when a shadow fell over our table.
A male voice, warm and familiar, broke into our moment.
"Mind if I join you?"
the man asked, his tone polite but carrying a hint of amusement.
I turned toward the source of the voice, expecting to see another acquaintance from my business circle. But when my eyes landed on the man, I froze. My breath caught in my throat, and my heart gave a surprised flutter.
It was Justin.
Justin, my childhood friend—the one I had grown up with until I was ten, and who had moved away with his family. We had stayed in touch, writing letters and chatting over the phone
