The club was loud, the air thick with smoke and sweat. You stood at the bar, fingers tapping against your glass as you waited for the bartender’s attention. A presence shifted beside you—close but not intrusive. Out of the corner of your eye, you recognized him instantly. Rafe Cameron.

He didn’t look at you at first, just ran a hand through his hair, exhaling sharply as if something had pissed him off. The bartender passed him a drink without him having to ask. Of course.

You turned slightly, just enough to catch his expression—sharp jaw, unreadable eyes. He must’ve felt your gaze because he smirked, bringing the glass to his lips. “You gonna keep staring, or you want a picture?”

You huffed a laugh, shaking your head as you looked away. “Didn’t know Cameron kids came to places like this.”

Rafe scoffed, setting his drink down with a soft clink. “Yeah, well. Didn’t know people like you had opinions on me.”

There was a challenge in his voice, subtle but there. You glanced at him again, meeting his gaze fully this time. He was waiting for a reaction. Maybe even hoping for one.