The Day I Kissed An Older Man

The wine had a strong alcohol content, and the sharp bite from that one sip burned like fire down Melody's throat. "I don't go to events like these often," she admitted, "so I'm not very used to the atmosphere here. Don't mind me, though. Go and have fun. I'll be fine on my own."

Stella smiled playfully. "That won't do! You're Lucas' friend, and I'm obliged to entertain you. However." She leaned in confidentially. "Lucas isn't exactly a social butterfly, especially when it comes to women. You're the first female friend he's brought to a banquet, so I'm curious to know how you two met each other."

The question was a little tricky. She could not bring herself to tell Stella the truth of their tumultuous first encounter in a hotel bedroom. That would shatter Lucas' carefully constructed facade of being single, and doing so might incite Lucas' wrath.

"Through...work," Melody mumbled. "We're not very close. I'm just an acquaintance, so don't worry about me."

Stella's smile remained, but her eyes narrowed and did not respond to that.

she asked.

I know him better than anyone. You could

of warmth as she

sweethearts," Melody said as she downed the glass of

somewhat ambiguous. "And we

Stella! Over here!" someone

she patted Melody on the shoulder and

part around her. She felt uncomfortable, so she silently

corner. Leaning against the balcony railing, she gazed