After speaking with Harris, Roland made his way toward the lively booth where Velicia sat nestled between Cole and Cray, their laughter mingling with the clatter of plates and music drifting through the restaurant. Carl was across from them, carefully helping Velicia peel her crab. Leah had already returned and sat beside Carl.
“Look who finally decided to join us,” Cray said with a grin as Roland approached.
“Didn’t want to miss out on all the elite company,” Roland smirked, giving a casual salute.
Velicia beamed, looking between Leah and Roland. “Pull up a chair. There’s room.”
Leah looked up briefly, catching Velicia shooting her a pointed, knowing look—one that clearly said ‘we’ll talk later.’
Leah returned the look with a flat glare and sipped her drink, pretending to focus on he
