DAMIEN I arrived at Rafael’s bar launch with Missy by my side. We pushed through the crowd, looking for Rafael. Finally, I spotted Rafael standing near the bar, surrounded by a small group of people. I made my way over, weaving through the guests. When Rafael saw me, he walked in my direction. "There you are!" he said, pulling me into a hug. "Congratulations, dear friend," I said as I stepped back, smiling at him. I reached into my bag and pulled out the small gift I’d brought—a limited-edition bottle of his favorite scotch. "Thought you might like this." "You know me too well. This is perfect, thank you, " he said as he tucked the bottle under his arm and looked at Missy. “You look stunning, Melissa,” Rafael said with a smile. “Thank you,” Missy replied. Rafael then lowered

