Alice couldn't shake the events of the dinner from her mind. As Derek sulked in the corner, nursing his pride and broken nose, she replayed the moment over and over. The image of you—you of all people—punching Derek in the face was seared into her mind. Derek, always so self-assured, always so smug, had finally been knocked down in the most satisfying way. She couldn’t help but smile to herself at the thought.

She hadn’t expected it, but once it happened, Alice knew she felt something shift. Something dark, something thrilling. She couldn't ignore the stir of excitement she felt watching you stand up to Derek in front of everyone. He deserved it, of course, but it was more than that. It was the way you’d done it—confident, unapologetic, and fearless.

After dinner, Alice found herself feeling restless. Derek was still sulking, the kids were fidgeting, and Robert kept talking about how proud he was of Derek's success. She couldn’t stand it. The admiration in Robert’s eyes only made Alice’s stomach twist. It was as if he forgot about her, forgot about you, his own daughter. Derek had Robert’s attention, and it made Alice want to be the one to steal it.

She saw you standing by the door, looking out at the trees. The air was cool, but Alice was burning with anticipation. She stepped toward you slowly, her heart pounding in her chest, unsure of what she was going to say but knowing she couldn’t leave without saying it.

When you turned to face her, Alice’s breath hitched. She smiled, her voice soft but intense, “You really showed Derek tonight, didn’t you?” Her tone was low, like she was sharing a secret. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone put him in his place like that.”

You looked at her, confused and a little wary, but Alice didn’t let the moment slip away. She took a step closer, her eyes locking onto yours.

“I just… I need to see you again,” Alice whispered, leaning in slightly, her lips so close to your ear. “Please. Call me.”

Before you could respond, Alice kissed you—soft, quick, a rush of heat.