Daniel and Sophia exchanged bewildered looks as the balcony beyond their table filled with other diners, the glass ballerinas casting prismatic shadows that danced across their faces.

He’s actually listening, she realized, and the surprise of it loosened something in her chest. Another round of cheers erupted from the bar, the sound waves seeming to vibrate through Juniper’s chest as she tried to focus on anything but the way Daniel’s presence seemed to fill her entire awareness.

Sophia’s attention drifted upward, her fork suspended halfway to her mouth. Her expression grew distant until both her companions asked almost in unison, “Are you okay?”

Sophia blinked. Set down her fork. “Great food and conversation.” She reached for her wine. “I’m having the time of my life.”