Chapter 37 - Natalie's Birthday Party

The music thumped louder as the night progressed, the energy at Natalie’s birthday party hitting an all-time high. The beachside club had transformed into a colorful blur of lights and laughter. Natalie danced in the middle of the crowd, her arms thrown around Travis as they laughed and swayed to the rhythm. Hardin watched from a distance, sipping his drink with a faint smile.

Layla, meanwhile, was clearly feeling the effects of the alcohol. Her usual composed, reserved demeanor had melted away into something lighter, more carefree. She had been laughing more freely, her cheeks flushed from both the heat of the crowd and the drinks she’d consumed. For once, she wasn’t hiding behind her professionalism.

Natalie shouts over the music.

“Come on, Hardin! You have to dance! No excuses!”

Hardin shook his head with a grin, waving her off from where he stood leaning against the bar.

“I’m better off here. Someone has to keep an eye on you all.”

Natalie pouted but was too caught up in the pa