“A party?” I repeated, my voice faltering slightly as I looked at Sophia’s eager face.
Before I could respond, Levi appeared at my side, his warm hand settling on the small of my back. The touch was subtle but possessive.
“Did I hear someone say party?” he asked, flashing his charming smile at Sophia and her friends.
Sophia nodded. “Yes! I’m inviting Hazel to a get-together this weekend at my place. Just some friends, good music, food… nothing crazy.”
Levi’s eyes lit up. “That sounds awesome! Doesn’t it, sweetheart?” He turned to me, his expression so genuinely excited that I almost felt bad about the dread pooling in my stomach.
“I’ll… think about it,” I said weakly, trying to keep my smile from faltering.
Sophia grinned. “Great! I’ll text you the details.” She quickly exchanged numbers with me while I felt Levi’s curious gaze on my face.
“I should get back to work,” I said, desperate for an escape. “Thanks for the invitation, Sophia.”
