The music starts back up. People are already crowding around Cole, offering birthday wishes and hugs. No one is paying attention to us.
Avery lets me lead her toward a corner where the lighting is even dimmer. My hand finds her waist over the elaborate gown, and she places her hand on my shoulder. We start swaying, not quite in time with the music but close enough.
“I thought you weren't coming,” I say.
“I almost didn't.” Her eyes search my face. “This is risky, Liam.”
“I know.”
“Someone might recognize us,” she says.
“They won't. Look around. Everyone is focused on Cole.” I pull her slightly closer. “Besides, we're in costume. We could be anyone.”
She relaxes slightly into my arms. “You make a surprisingly convincing pirate.”
“You make a stunning Victorian lady.”
We dance in silence for a moment. The party swirls around us but here in our little corner, it feels like we're in our own world.
“I missed you today,” I murmur against her ear. “Even though I just saw you a few hours ago.”
“That's ridiculous.”
“You keep saying that.” I pull back enough to see her face. “Doesn't make it less true.”
She opens her mouth to respond, but Harper's voice cuts through the music: “Okay everyone, Cole is here, the surprise is complete. Feel free to unmask and mingle. Let's celebrate!”
People start removing masks and hats, revealing their identities. Laughter erupts as teammates recognize each other.
“We should separate,” Avery says, but she hasn't moved from my arms.
“In a minute.” I rest my forehead against hers, closing my eyes. “Please.”
For sixty more seconds, we just sway together until reality intrudes.
“Liam, is that you?” Cole's voice cuts through our bubble.
We spring apart like teenagers caught making out. Cole is approaching with Harper, both grinning widely.
“Nice costume, man,” Cole says, pulling me into a hug. “Didn't recognize you at first.”
“That was the point.” I glance at Avery, who's suddenly very interested in adjusting her mask. “Happy birthday, Cap.”
“Thanks for coming.”
“Wasn’t going to miss it,” I lie. “I heard it was going to be a good party.”
Harper smiles. “I'm so glad you both could make it. Avery, you look absolutely stunning.”
“Thank you. This party is incredible, Harper.”
“It was a labor of love.” Harper links her arm through Cole's. “Come on, birthday boy. People want to say happy birthday.”
They disappear into the crowd, leaving Avery and me standing awkwardly apart.
“We should mingle,” she says.
“Yeah.”
