"That's the day I have set with my friend. If you tag along, it'll just be awkward."
I watched every shift in her expression, pressing the point.
"Can't you make an exception? Just once?"
Sonia's face went blank for a split second. A flicker of guilt crossed her features before she puffed out her cheeks in mock anger.
"What's gotten into you today? You've always been so supportive before."
"I told you, it's a girls' hangout. You're a grown man tagging along. What's my friend going to think? You want her saying I lost all my freedom the second I got married?"
Watching her rattle off those well-rehearsed deflections, I let out a quiet laugh and calmly pulled my arm free.
"Fine. Forget it."
I stood, gathered the plates, and carried them into the kitchen. Every dish, stone cold, went straight into the trash.
Over the sound of running water, Sonia shot a quick glance my way, then slipped out onto the balcony.
"Mm-hm, I'm home. You get some sleep too."
"I know, I know. First of next month, same place."
I turned off the faucet and walked over. My gaze landed on her phone screen. The contact name read Lucas Harding.
"Was that your girlfriend calling?"