From the bar, Celina watched from a distance, smiling at the interaction between the two of them. But the weight of the night was beginning to settle on her shoulders. She finished her sparkling water and walked over.

“Zoe… I think I’m heading out. I’m getting tired,” she said softly, touching her friend’s arm.

Zoe glanced at Arthur, then back at Celina, reading the message immediately. As much as she wanted to stay, she knew her friend needed her.

“Of course, let’s go.”

Arthur stepped in politely.

“I can give you both a ride, if you’d like.”

“Thanks, Arthur, but we’ll grab an Uber,” Zoe said with an easy smile, declining gently.

Arthur nodded, his eyes lingering on Zoe with an expression that clearly said, this isn’t over.

“All right then. It was a real pleasure meeting you, Zoe.”

“The pleasure was mine,” she replied. “Take good care of my number.”

“You can count on it.” He brushed her hand lightly before letting them go.

The two women went over to say goodbye to the birthday boy. Zo