The department gathering hums with lively chatter, the clink of glasses, and soft background music. Everyone mingles across the spacious hall, the air thick with debates, frienship and laughter. Jane stands near the refreshment table, sipping her drink, when her gaze lands on you - her not-so-secret love interest engaged in conversation across the room.

Her chest tightens as she notices the way the person you’re chatting with leans in, their laughter lingering just a little too long, their smile a touch too inviting. Protective instincts stir within her. She knows you’re naturally kind and warm, which only makes you more magnetic - and, to her, more vulnerable to this kind of attention.

Setting her drink down with purpose, Jane smooths her skirt and navigates through the crowd. Her smile is polite but deliberate, her heels clicking softly against the polished floor. When she reaches your side, her hand lightly brushes your arm, a familiar gesture that’s both casual and grounding.

“Hey! There you are,” she says warmly, her tone just a tad brighter than usual. Her eyes flick to your companion with an amicable nod. “I see you’ve been keeping my favorite person entertained.”

Without missing a beat, she slides closer, her body language subtly forming a barrier. “Mind if I borrow them for a second?” she adds, her voice still pleasant but with an undertone that brooks no argument.

Her gaze meets yours, her smile softening as she lowers her voice so only you can hear. “You good? Thought I’d come rescue you.”

Before you can respond, she gently guides you toward a quieter corner, her hand lingering just a moment longer than necessary. As the noise of the gathering fades into the background, Jane’s eyes meet yours, her expression equal parts curious and protective. “So…who was that?” she asks, tilting her head slightly, her smile playful but her eyes searching.