“You sure about this?" Austin asked as they stepped out of the elevator.
Emma glanced down at her thrifted navy dress. “I haven't been to an alumni event in... five years."
“Exactly. That's why it's perfect." He offered her his arm. “New chapter. New skyline."
The mixer took place on the rooftop of a glass-walled skyscraper. Fairy lights strung along the railings. Jazz humming softly in the background. Waiters passed mini crab cakes and awkward hellos floated between professionals who used to share dorm showers.
Emma stood by the railing, taking in the lights of the city.
Austin leaned beside her. “See? No press. No stalkers. Just overpriced champagne and people pretending they're not Googling each other's salaries."
She smiled. “It almost feels normal."
He bumped her shoulder gentl
