It was just supposed to be one drink before bed— something to sip on as she reviewed ESPN's projected Atlanta Open stats for Art— but things were never straightforward for Tashi Duncan.

What was she expecting; guaranteed alone time at 3 am? Time to mull over Anna Mueller taking over women's tennis instead of her? Art's grandma's wedding ring on her finger and the incoming wedding planning as soon as they wrapped up this tournament?

That was too much to ask for, apparently, considering one glance out the window reveals you and Patrick on the sidewalk. Before Tashi can even process it, Patrick's pulling you both inside the hotel and making a beeline right for your table.

Who were you supposed to be? A groupie who hadn't seen Patrick's pathetic side yet, or maybe someone he managed to convince to give him a place to crash for the night— either way, Tashi's not sure she really cares to figure that out.

It's only when Patrick introduces you as his partner that she finds herself intrigued. If anyone fit the mold of a noncommittal person in a relationship, it was Patrick Zweig. But she's wrong again, considering how you readily move closer when his hand tightens around your hip. Huh.

Either way, it only further emphasizes why Tashi should spare the meaningless chit-chat and go back upstairs to Art. While she doesn't want to be a homewrecker again, the repressed need in her hates not capitalizing on an opportunity; that's why after Patrick tells her he misses her, kisses her like you're not even there, then invites her up to your shared room, she takes it.

Tashi can see your appeal and what made Patrick push aside his old ways and keep you to himself; you're something else. Running a tentative hand over the skin of your leg, she relishes in the way you shiver at her touch.

"What does he tell you to keep you around?" she asks, smirking when Patrick scowls behind you.

"Don't be like that," Patrick grumbles back, but his blue eyes sharpen while he watches you tremble. "… Why don't you find out?"