Two men

*****

"Anastasia, come here!" Emilia's sudden shout echoed through the venue, causing heads to turn in surprise. Ana caught off guard, wore a confused expression, unaware of when her relationship with Emilia had blossomed into a close friendship.

"I am fine here, Emilia, cut the cake!" Ana said, her confusion escalating as Emilia's unexpected closeness seemed increasingly suspicious. There had to be a reason behind Emilia's sudden friendliness, and Ana was determined to uncover it.

"No, you are one of the guests I've been eagerly anticipating. I'd be over the moon to have you beside me while I'm cutting the cake. Surely, that's not too big an ask, is it?" Emilia's words dripped with honeyed deception as she spoke with a sweet pout. Ana's unease grew like a storm cloud as she stole a glance at Richard, whose expression was as clear as day – he was not on board. Seeking help from him would be like looking for a needle in a haystack.

"Go Ana, before your best friend ends up swimming in a