Essel’s Pov
“I’m at Tyler’s party,” he replied, his tone suggesting I’d asked the most foolish question imaginable. I shot him a disapproving look.
“How do you even know Tyler?” I inquired.
“Through mutual acquaintances,” he answered simply.
“Whatever. I'm leaving,” I declared, feeling disillusioned and regretting my decision to come tonight. “I sincerely hope I won’t encounter you again, André,” I added, my voice steady. I attempted to step around him, but he seized my arm and pulled me toward him with such force that I yelped in surprise.
“Essel, you always leave early. Come on, let’s enjoy ourselves,” he murmured huskily into my ear. My heart raced with apprehension, a feeling I was resolute in not revealing to him.
“With you?” I scoffed, my incredulity evident. “I’d prefer to
