Page 117 of Double Standards

Then I listen carefully as Noah explains his own failed relationship. A girl who stole his heart but didn’t quite feel the same; a tragic love story where there was no happy ever after for him.

I refrain from asking more about her because it feels like he’s said all he has to say. I rest a hand on his shoulder, hoping I can convey my sympathy towards the man. “Don’t let that deter you from happiness,” I placate. “Maybe it just wasn’t meant to be. I’m sure there is someone out there for you, for us.”

There’s a quiet understanding that settles between us, something unspoken but comfortable. The conversation flows easily, dipping between light teasing and deeper threads, the kind that makes you forget how late it’s gotten. Laughter comes effortlessly. By the time we realize our friends have vanished and the music has thinned to a distant pulse, the night has softened around us.

Outside, the air is cooler, the streetlights casting long shadows across the pavement. Noah glances at me, hands in his pockets, that same easy charm still playing at the corners of his mouth.

“You want me to walk you home?” he offers.

I shake my head with a soft smile. “I’ll grab a cab.”

He leans in, brushing a gentle kiss to my cheek. It lingers just long enough to leave warmth in its wake.

“Lovely meeting you, Cassie.”

“Likewise,” I say, watching him go before turning to the street, heart just a little lighter than before.

I wait for a taxi, shivering in the chill, arms wrapped around myself. That’s when I hear it again. For a brief moment, I don’t feel the ache of Axel’s absence. It’s still there, lingering beneath my skin, but the weight of it has lessened.

“Cass?”

I stiffen.

“Not tonight,” I snap. “I’m not doing this, Cooper.”

“I just want to talk.”

“There’s nothing left to say.” I go to walk away, but he follows, cutting me off.

“Please, Cass.”

“Leave it!” My voice is sharper now, rising. He grabs my shoulders.

“I’m sorry.”

“Get off me!”

“I’d heed her request if I were you,” another voice cuts in.

I freeze.

Hunter.

“It doesn’t concern you, pal.”

Before Cooper can react, Hunter’s fist slams into his jaw.

“Hunter!” I scream, grabbing his arm before he lands another blow.

Cooper stumbles back, wiping blood from his lip. Shock widens his eyes and I can see the determination in them, but Ialso see the fear. The decision to back away before things get worse.

I watch his retreating form disappear into the shadows before I whirl on Hunter. “Seriously?”

He shrugs, smirking. “Looked like you needed a hand.”

“I had it under control.”

“Sure you did.” He jerks his head toward a sleek black Porsche parked nearby. “Come on.”