Bait for a Gentleman novel Chapter 4

Zachary choked on his words, "You two..."

He completely lost his train of thought. Since when? Were they... close?-

Catching his momentary shock, Sebastian smirked, "Just kidding. I invited you a month ago—doesn't that include her?"

It was a flawless answer that left no room for argument.

Audrina curled her lip. The man was just making a joke, but look how terrified it made Zachary. Sneaking around behind her back, trying to eat out of someone else's bowl while desperately hoarding his own. Was he out of his mind?

Her gaze slowly drifted over to Vera. "So, what about Ms. Yates? Did she shamelessly tag along with my fiancé?"

Vera bit her lip, her eyes already turning a bit red.

"Audrina, I know you're upset, but..." Her voice cracked with a sob, tears glistening on her eyelashes, threatening to spill over. "I really didn't... If you're that unhappy, I'll just leave."

She made a slow, dramatic show of standing up, only to be stopped when Zachary grabbed her arm.

"Ignore her," he said to Vera in a gentle tone.

Then he turned his head to glare at Audrina, his brows deeply furrowed, "Are you done yet? Sebastian is right here. Do you really have to ruin the mood for everyone?"

Zachary's hand was still wrapped around Vera's wrist, and Vera used the momentum to settle back down closely by his side, their knees practically touching.

Audrina unwrapped a mint, folding the wrapper into a tiny square and placing it neatly on the table. She told herself to just endure it a little longer.

Taking a soft breath, she flashed a brilliant smile. "I just got back. I haven't even adjusted to the time difference, but I rushed straight here to see you. Since Ms. Yates is your friend, why would I kick her out?"

From an angle Audrina couldn't see, Zachary squeezed Vera's hand tightly, looking as though he wanted to say more.

But Audrina had already raised her glass, denying him the chance to speak. "Forget it—"

She raised her drink to Sebastian. "Today is Mr. Hawthorne's birthday. Since we're all friends, let's just sit and enjoy the night."

Sebastian lowered the rim of his glass and lightly clinked it against hers. His gaze shifted to Zachary. "You too. Shouldn't you take better care of your girlfriend? You never know when someone might just sweep her away right from under your nose."

The music in the room was booming, so Zachary didn't catch exactly what he said; he just laughed in agreement. He offered Sebastian another toast.

The transition was so smooth it was as if nothing had happened.

She turned to Zachary. "You guys have fun, I'm going out for some fresh air."

Zachary ignored her, assuming she was just throwing another tantrum.

Audrina walked out of the room. The door clicked shut behind her, cutting off the noise inside. She didn't go far, just leaned against the wall next to the door, lowering her eyes.

Less than a minute later, the door opened again.

Sebastian stepped out, holding his phone to his ear.

"Yeah, go ahead."

But his eyes were locked entirely on her face.

Audrina smiled, knowing he would follow her out.