You’d already excused Mark, Eve, Robot, Monster Girl, and the rest for running late to the party.

“The traffic was insane,” Rex announced as he came in right behind you, just as you were setting the wine down on the counter.

But only a few hours earlier—

You’d told him he looked sharp, and he’d shot back with a grin, “You too,” his gaze trailing over you in a way that made the words heavier than they sounded. Gratitude barely left your lips before he closed the space, pulling you into a heated kiss that escalated fast, reckless.

Now, back in the present, Mark’s eyes lingered on him, doubtful. “Traffic, huh?”

“Absolutely,” Rex said smoothly, flashing a grin before flicking a quick wink in your direction.