The scrape of chairs against polished marble echoed softly as they all rose from their seats, the evening’s warmth thinning into something sharper, more uncertain.

“Katie adjusted her clutch, turning to Cleopatra. “Cleo, let Calvin take you home. I’m spending the night at Gavin’s.”

Cleopatra offered a faint, composed smile. “Don’t worry. I can get home by myself.”

Katie frowned, concern creasing her features. “It’s late. Even if the roads are still busy, you can’t leave a lady to go home alone.”

Before Cleopatra could respond, two voices cut cleanly through the air.

“I’ll take her home.”

Anthony and Calvin spoke in unison.

A ripple of surprise passed through the...