Chapter 5

“Damn it, Vanessa, leave me out of this.”

“Alanna, under normal circumstances, I’d let you be, but did you see the size of that man?”

“Alright, a whiskey shot is all you’ve got! After that, I’m leaving, and you’re on your own!”

“Aiiiii, Alanna, I love you so much!” Vanessa hugged her tightly. Matheus was standing in the doorway, frozen by the affectionate scene he had just witnessed.

“Aaaaand we’re waiting for you!”

“We’re coming! What kind of bar do you like? We have several pubs! Or do you prefer a nightclub? Or a more intimate setting? London is a wonderful city at night.” Vanessa chattered ahead of the group, and Alanna followed behind with Matheus.

“Your friend is quite lively!”

“A bit too much even for me.”

Vanessa took them to a pub she frequented. It was a noisy place, but charming by British standards. Alexia sat next to Matheus at a round corner table. Vanessa insisted on sitting next to Anthony. The empty seats were left for