“Don’t be a dick, okay? Sebastian’s a good guy. He was already nervous before we even got here.
I think he still feels awkward about how things ended with Maddie, which I get, but that was years ago. They were kids.
So behave. Just give him a break.”
Francis doesn’t look convinced.
“Doesn’t it bother you, though? I honestly don’t get why you agreed to let him live with you.”
“Because Maddie asked me to,” I say flatly.
Then I add, “And no, it doesn’t bother me. We’re adults.
She’s in love with me.
And Sebastian… he’s actually not that bad.
So if I can deal with it, so can you.”
Francis lets out a reluctant grunt.
“Fine. Whatever you say, mate.”
But I’m not done.
“There’s nothing to worry about, Fran.
Sure, Sebastian’s a good-looking guy, but I seriously doubt he’s Anne’s type.
And let’s be real, everyone knows she’s completely in love with you.”
I shoot him a wink and nudge his shoulder again.
He pretends to glare at me, then strolls casually over to Anne and Sebastian like none of that conversation ever happened.
As I follow Francis back to the group, I hear him introduce himself, full of charm, all smiles, and I shake my head.
He can be intense. Way too intense sometimes.
But I knew he’d come around.
I introduce Sebastian to Noah and Jamie ,who are their usual cheerful, welcoming selves. Then we all settle around the table.
It’s a Saturday night, and the pub is packed.
The air is warm, thick with the scent of beer and freshly baked shepherd’s pies, the house specialty.
Laughter bounces off the walls, voices rising over the music, and at our table, everything feels easy. Relaxed.
I’m already hungry just thinking about the chicken and mushroom pie I’ve ordered, paired with a pint of cold Tennent’s.
Simple pleasures.
Across the table, I glance at Sebastian, sitting between Anne and Noah. They’re deep in conversation, but what really makes me smile is that he’s smiling too. Still a little shy, maybe. But clearly at ease.
He’s taken off his jacket and is leaning forward on the polished wood table, forearms resting in the soft amber light.
The tattoos catch my eye again, delicate lines, black ink curling up his pale skin.
