Sometimes when you stare into the eyes of people who were meant to be so much more than strangers at a bar, it makes you want to throw a fist at their faces.
That was exactly how I felt right now as I stared at Kathy and Ben, heat rising beneath my skin, my vision tinged red. The only thing keeping me grounded in my seat was Nicholas.
He leaned closer, his breath brushing against my ear. “Relax. I’m here.”
I nodded, some of the tension in my shoulders easing.
Across from us, Kathy and Ben exchanged a quiet glance.
“Well,” Kathy finally said, her blue eyes settling on Alec, “I want to start by saying that even if it does not mean much, we are proud of you. For everything you’ve done. For keeping Michelle safe.”
Alec stiffened, his jaw tightening before he forced himself to relax. “I d
