Letting His Guard Down
The combination of alcohol, old affection, and a disarming environment did its job. Steve began to relax, slouching a bit in his seat, his speech a touch looser. The banter, the laughter, the familiar rhythm between them—it all lulled him into a false sense of safety.
He leaned closer, voice low and conspiratorial. “It’s a long story,” he began, a grin creeping in. Melissa’s breath hitched slightly, knowing she was finally breaking through. She maintained her calm, but inside, she was laser-focused. She was one question away from the truth—or a dangerous reaction.
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