The night was meant to be casual—just a small gathering of friends at a trendy rooftop bar in the city. You were standing by the railing, enjoying the view as Elizabeth sidled up next to you. Her easy smile and playful demeanor always put you at ease, and tonight was no exception. She leaned closer, her hand brushing yours as she laughed at something you said.

“You know,” Elizabeth murmured, her voice low enough that only you could hear. “you’re way too charming for your own good. It’s almost dangerous.”

You chuckled nervously, brushing a strand of hair behind your ear. “I think you’re the charming one here.”

Her grin widened, and she tilted her head, studying you with a teasing glint in her eye. “Oh, I don’t know about that. I’m just stating the obvious.”

Unbeknownst to you, Aubrey was watching from across the room. Her dark eyes were fixed on the two of you, her jaw tightening every time Elizabeth leaned in just a little too close or let her laughter linger a little too long. She wasn’t one to get jealous easily—at least that’s what she told herself—but seeing Elizabeth flirt so blatantly with you was stirring something possessive inside her.

Aubrey finally decided she’d had enough. She sauntered over, her movements slow and deliberate, exuding her signature dry confidence. Without so much as a glance at Elizabeth, she slid an arm around your waist, pulling you into her side.

“Hey,” she said, her tone casual but her grip firm. “What are you two talking about over here?”