The energy in the booth was electric, and Marina had to admit she was genuinely impressed. Carson really was a master of the game. He knew exactly how to charm women with effortless grace.
Even juggling three girls at once, he never missed a beat.
When Trixie lost two rounds in a row, Marina took the penalty shots for her. By the time she downed the second glass, her head was spinning, and her heart was racing with a heavy, rhythmic thud.
Carson glanced over at her, then calmly ordered a glass of yogurt to soothe her stomach. He checked his watch and smiled at the group. "It's getting late. Shouldn't you girls be heading home?"
Summer and Trixie had been having so much fun they completely lost track of time. Checking their phones, they realized it was well past midnight, though neither actually wanted the night to end.
Before parting ways, Trixie boldly asked for Carson's number. Carson played it perfectly fair, sharing his contact info with Summer as well. "Let's all hang out again sometime," he said smoothly.
As they made their way toward the exit, Marina suddenly remembered the woman Carson had been sitting with. She glanced back toward the bar, but the mystery girl was long gone.
Stepping out into the cool night air, the three women took deep, refreshing breaths, the chill instantly sobering them up a fraction.
Carson efficiently hailed two separate cabs, making sure Summer and Trixie were safely on their way.
"What about Marina?" Trixie asked before sliding into her ride.
"I'll take her home," Carson replied seamlessly.
Trixie flashed a highly suggestive smirk, waving enthusiastically. "Have fun! We're leaving!"
Marina knew exactly what her friends were assuming, but she didn't bother correcting them. Her arrangement with Carson was a secret anyway.
*
In the backseat of their cab, Summer's phone buzzed with a text from Trixie: [Do you think Marina and that guy are actually going to hook up tonight?]
Two gorgeous people, undeniably electric chemistry, and plenty of alcohol—sparks flying and ending up in bed seemed like the only logical conclusion!
Summer replied with a sticker of a girl eating popcorn: [Highly likely!]
Trixie: [Is that really okay? Marina is engaged!]
Summer: [So what? Her fiancé is probably out cheating anyway. Why shouldn't she have some fun? Equality!]

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Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)
Another twist, Phoebe will try and hook up with Kai Foster. Thank you for the updates....
Thank you for the updates....
Carson kick Giselle to the curb as a gentleman. He never fails to explain himself to Marina and he always rises to the occasion to come to her rescue. Now that he's assured her that he won't do as his father had done. The ice is breaking. Thank you for the updates....
May we have updates please. Thank you...
Carson can be jealous too. More updates please and thank you for the updates....
More updates please....
Oooowweeee! This THREW ME COMPLETELY for a loop. Thank you for the updates....
May we please have updates. Thank you...
It's time for Carson and Marina to commit further than the engagement. Looking forward to the updates....
Thank you for the updates....