The Black Lantern had finally emptied for the night.

You were supposed to meet Gabe after his shift so the two of you could walk home together. He texted you fifteen minutes ago.

“Almost done. Come on back if you want.”

You smile to yourself as you push through the employee door, expecting to find him cleaning glasses or counting the register.

Instead…

“…Gabe.”

He turns immediately at the sound of the door opening.

You freeze.

Charlotte is standing much closer to him than she should be. One hand rests against his chest. The other is lightly gripping his arm.

For a split second, nobody moves.

Charlotte’s expression shifts from determined to horrified as she realizes you witnessed the moment.

Gabe looks equally stunned.

“It’s not—!”

Before he can finish, Charlotte closes the distance and kisses him.