“Relax,” I murmur. “Breathe.”
“Right.” He exhales.
“You’re at her cousin’s engagement party. String lights everywhere. Too much champagne. At least one aunt with zero respect for personal boundaries.” He nods. “You’re standing beside me. Lead the conversation.”
He takes a breath. “Hi. I’m glad I could help you tonight.”
I soften my tone. “Of course. I’m glad you agreed.”
“That feels… doable.”
“Because it’s honest. Now keep going.”
He pauses, thinking. “So… how close are you to your cousin?”
A smile slips out before I can stop it. “Perfect. That shows interest and gives me room to talk. We grew up together. Big family. Loud holidays, including engagement parties.”
He nods. “I can see that.”
“Good. Now add something about yourself.”
“Maybe… my family isn’t as big as yours, but we’re close too.”
“That works. It’s a compliment without trying too hard.”
He lets out a slow breath. “Okay. I can handle that part.”
“Next scenario.” I lean back in my chair. “Someone asks how you met.”
His shoulders tighten instantly. “Oh.”
“Welcome to engagement parties. What’s your answer?”
He clears his throat. “We were set up through mutual friends. Turns out we get along pretty well.”
I nod. “Perfect. It’s simple and vague. Safe. Just make sure you and your date agree on the story beforehand.”
A faint grin spreads across his face. “I like safe.”
“Now you’re sitting together. The music is playing and you’ve escaped the group conversation, what do you ask?”
He hesitates. “Is it okay to ask if she’s having a good time?”
“Yes. It’s considerate.”
“And if she says yes?”
“Then you follow up.”
He nods, thinking it through. “Good. I am too. The food’s been great.”
“That’s perfect. It shows awareness without making it heavy.”
His shoulders ease. “This isn’t as terrifying as I thought.”
“It’s not.” I shift in my chair. “Now imagine a quieter moment. Just the two of you.” I hold his gaze. “What do you ask?”
He swallows. “What’s something you’re looking forward to?”
