"Well-behaved women rarely make history." - Laurel Thatcher Ulrich

  Katerina

  I scanned the crowd, a practiced smile playing on my lips. My fingers tightened around the stem of my wine glass, the cool glass a small comfort in the sea of unfamiliar faces. The clinking of silverware and the murmur of conversations washed over me, a low hum that did little to soothe the unease tightening my chest. I took a slow sip of my wine, the crisp, fruity notes a welcome distraction. Phoebe's family functions were legendary—large, boisterous affairs that always left me feeling slightly overwhelmed.

  A woman with a wide, friendly smile approached a glass of something bubbly in her hand. "Enjoying yourself?" she asked, her voice warm.

  "Very much so," I replied, offering a polite nod. *Amy, right?* I was usually good with names, but the sheer number of people was making my head spin.

  This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

  Phoebe, a vision in a flowing sundress, appeared at my side, a forkful of strawberry cake halfway to her lips. "Hey, girly," she said, her smile radiant. "Having fun?"

  I glanced at the overflowing dessert table, a tempting array of pastries and cakes. "I'm not having a bad time," I admitted, "but you know how I am with crowds." I reached for a slice of double chocolate cake, the rich aroma making my mouth water. "Also, even though I'm technically off duty, I feel like I'm still event planning." I'd orchestrated the entire event, from the table arrangements to the menu, even though my staff was handling the on-the-day logistics. Control was a comfort, even in social situations.

  "I know, and I really appreciate you being here," Phoebe said, finishing her cake and discarding the plate. She gave me a quick, warm hug. "My brother's finally back in town, and I wanted you to meet him."

  I returned the hug, a genuine smile gracing my lips. Phoebe was one of the few people I allowed into my personal space. Our friendship, forged in the crucible of college life, was one of the most important things in my life. "I know. I promise it's all good," I reassured my friend. "So, where's this elusive brother of yours?"

  "He should be here any minute," Phoebe replied, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "He's coming straight from the airport."

  I smiled. Phoebe talked about her brother with such warmth and affection. "Great. Let's grab another drink and mingle while we wait."