The storm outside slammed wind against the glass, but the room was warm and bright, everyone packed around the long dining table in that messy, comfortable way only familiar people manage.
Nala was at the head of the table, straight-backed like she was chairing a meeting even while chewing steak. Delilah sat at the opposite end, queenly without trying, shoulders back, wine pushed aside. Jasmine was beside Nala, tucked close. Kim sat next to Jasmine. Tessa was beside Kim, practically lounging in her seat like she lived here. Minne ended up between Tessa and Jasmine, the safest place, apparently, eating tiny careful bites like she wasn't sure she was allowed to enjoy the meal. And me? They stuck me at the corner on a barstool with my plate balanced on my knee. Beautiful.
Kim glanced over and noticed I had no drink. She swallowed quickly. "Should I pour you some wine?"
"Nah," I said. "I'm more of a beer guy."
Jasmine smirked. "Obviously."
