Patrick Perry immediately sensed the tension in the air. As he moved to take away the wine in front of Freya, she swiftly grabbed it, raising a toast to Bradley Austin. "Mr. Adams, I'm truly grateful for your assistance today. This drink is to honor you." Before Bradley could respond, she emptied the glass in one swift gulp.
Both Bradley's and Patrick's expressions shifted, the latter remarking, "Impressive tolerance!" Ignoring Bradley's icy stare, Patrick refilled her glass.
"To Patrick," she began, raising her glass again, "Thank you for getting me home safely last time. I owe you an apology for my deceit. I'm not Ann Lawson Xin, my real name is Freya Lawson. Also, the number I gave you. It's my sister's."
The memory was awkward for Patrick; he had called the number, only to hear some
