Chapter 17 Setup (II)

One of the men, with a somewhat rogueish demeanor, stood up, swaying slightly with his tall, lean body as he held his drink. He greeted them, "Of course we have you. But being late for your own party means you have to down three drinks, no exceptions." He casually draped an arm around Isabella's shoulder, but his lustful eyes fixated on Lily Parker. "Who's this lovely lady? Haven't seen her before..." The moment Lily had walked in, her long, fair legs had caught his attention.

"My junior, Lily Parker," Isabella swatted his hand away, giving him a stern look. She pulled Lily close, "Lily, this is Preston Harrow. He's a friend. A good guy, but a little over the top at times. Hope you don't mind."

Lily, unaware of the underlying dynamics, offered an awkward smile, "Hello."

"All good, all good!" Preston's gaze never left Lily. A gulp rolled down his throat, perhaps due to the alcohol, he felt a sudden warmth.

Isabella shot him a meaningful look and said, "Let's sit down and talk." She sea