He gave a half-shrug, pretending like this wasn't a huge deal. "You told me to dress like Lucas."
Ava's lips twitched, amusement flickering in her gaze.
"I'm glad you are going," she said sincerely.
Dennis shifted on his feet, exhaling through his nose.
"But you know what this means, right?" he said.
She frowned. "What do you mean?"
Dennis clenched his jaw. "It means that if this all goes to shit, if Lucas doesn't back down," He exhaled, his throat tight. "It means we might end up fighting each other."
"Let's hope it doesn't get to that."
"So," he muttered. "I'm leaving."
Ava nodded. "Okay."
Dennis stared at her.
She stared back.
But he was still standing there.
Ava raised an eyebrow. "Dennis?"
He scowled. "Not going to wish me good luck?"
Ava rolled her eyes. "Good luck."
Dennis gave an exaggerated sigh. "Come on, Ava. Is a peck on the cheek too much to ask?"
Ava chuckled. She stepped forward, standing on her toes, and pressed a soft kiss to his cheek.
