Mini Gathering (II)

The gathering continued, a comfortable hum of voices filling the grand living room. The golden light from chandelier reflecting off the glasses of wine and beer scattered across the coffee table.

Evander sat beside Cedric, his posture relaxed but his eyes sharp as he listened to the ongoing chatter. On the opposite couch, Delphinia sat comfortably with Valerie, Gion, and Luca, her presence effortlessly blending with Evander's long-time friends. Across the room, Lydia sat with Wilson and Alaric, both men holding bottles of beer, the condensation forming small rings on the wooden coasters beneath them.

Cedric leaned slightly toward Evander, voice carrying just enough weight to be heard over the lively conversation. "I hope it's not a problem that I brought Lydia."

Evander's lips curled slightly, amusement flickering in his eyes. "So, you bothered to ask after the fact?" He let the question hang for a moment before continuing. "Why bother when you already did it?"