The party had begun. Guests had started arriving, and people were already socializing.

"Thank you for coming, how are you?" I walk across the tables beside the pool. My eyes are fixated on the entrance, waiting to see Rose and Luke arrive.

"Natalie Devaux Richardson." I hear a deep voice call me from behind. I turn around.

"Judge Lahey," I respond, surprised. I hadn't invited him here.

"You didn't. I'm here as a plus one." He states. I giggle nervously.

"Heh." I take a glass of Dom as the waitress passes. I continue, "What a pleasant surprise, still."

"I'm your ally, Natalie. It just seems awfully familiar to me, I...