While chatting and laughing with Adrian, Norah caught a glimpse of Gonzalez nursing a drink in silence. Biting her lower lip, she grabbed a plate of freshly grilled steak and walked over. "You haven't eaten much tonight. Have some meat."
"Thanks," Gonzalez said, taking the plate.
Norah rubbed the back of her neck sheepishly. "Sorry. I might have been a bit harsh earlier. I know you were just looking out for me."
Gonzalez leaned forward with the plate, tilting his head to look at her. A faint smirk played on his lips. "So you admit you were wrong?"
"Not exactly!" she fired back immediately.
Seeing his expression darken, she couldn't help but laugh. "Just eat. The lobster will be ready soon. I'll bring you some."
His deep, predatory gaze locked onto her. "Sit down and rest. I can get my own food."
Norah nodded, returning to her seat to chat with Sara and the others.
Nearby, Lorelei and Whitney were purposely being loud at their grill to draw attention.
A car pulled up, and a young couple set up a tent across from Lorelei.
Lorelei rushed over to play the welcoming committee, handing out her own barbecue. Soon enough, she had buddied up with the naive pair.
Norah watched Lorelei shuttling back and forth, quickly piecing together her game plan.
"Ignore them. Let's just enjoy ourselves," Sara muttered.
Norah gave a subtle nod.
Halfway through her beer, Sara turned to Gonzalez, casually digging for gossip. "How many girlfriends have you had, Mr. Hanson?"
His slightly raspy voice blended with the evening breeze, low and rich. "None."
Norah raised an eyebrow. He had literally just told her he was fresh out of a breakup.

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