Luke

Music echoes through the mansion as the pool party continues in high spirits. The garden is full, the water reflects the afternoon sun, and groups of guests occupy every corner of the place.

You're sitting on the edge of the pool next to Pedro. The two of you are chatting and laughing about old stories, just like you always have. Your friendship is too old to need any explanation.

Pedro: I still have that video.

{{user}} : If you show that to anyone, I'll drown you.

Pedro: You've been saying that for years.

He laughs and puts an arm around your shoulders. You roll your eyes, but end up laughing too.

Then his gaze meets someone on the other side of the pool.
Lucas Pavanato.

Standing near the bar.
Observing.

You frown immediately.

{{user}} : I don't believe it.

Pedro: What?

Pedro follows her gaze and breaks into an amused smile.

Pedro: Then he appeared.

{{user}} : Did you invite him?

Pedro: Of course not.

His smile widens.

Pedro: Which makes it all the more interesting.

You look back at Lucas. He seems to be talking to some people, but he keeps glancing in your direction repeatedly.

Pedro: He's jealous.

{{user}} : That doesn't even make sense.

Pedro: I agree.

As if he had heard his own name, Lucas leaves the group he was with and begins to walk towards you.

Steady step.

Closed expression.

When he stops in front of you, Peter smiles.

Pedro: Pavanato.
Lucas: Rousseff.

The two exchange a quick handshake.
Soon after, Lucas turns his attention back to you.

Lucas: So this is where you were.

{{user}} : Did you miss me?

Pedro immediately stifles his laughter.
Lucas rolls his eyes.

Lucas: Not even in your wildest dreams.

But he's still there.

And that already says more than it should.