The mansion didn’t feel like home that night.
Lights were dimmed. Music moved through the rooms in a low, heavy beat. People Troy had known for years filled the living room and spilled into the kitchen. Glasses clinked. Someone laughed too loudly near the garden doors.
Alex stood near the wall with a drink he hadn’t touched.
Paxton was by the drinks table. When he noticed Alex he lifted his glass a little.
“Didn’t think you’d be down here,” Paxton said.
Alex shrugged one shoulder. “He told me to come.”
Paxton gave a short, dry smile. “Yeah. That tracks.” His eyes moved across the room. “He’s in a mood tonight.”
Alex followed the look.
Troy stood in the middle of a small group, black shirt open at the throat, glass loose in his hand. A tall man with dark hair leaned in and said some
