My Great Escape Led Me to You (Emily Blair) novel Chapter 841

Tristan leaned back and said, “Alright, so what’s this about?”

With his arms folded, Tanner grinned. “My birthday’s in six days. I’m planning a party at Riven and wanted to invite you.”

Tristan glanced at him. “You’re right here—why not just have it here?”

Tanner raised an eyebrow, his look loaded with meaning.

Tristan caught on. “What’s up? Something going on?”

“Not exactly.” For once, Tanner’s usual easy confidence faltered, replaced by a hint of shyness. “I met a girl. She works at Riven. Honestly, I like her. We’ve already agreed to meet up again, and since my birthday’s coming up, I thought it’d be the perfect excuse to ask her out.”

Tristan chuckled. “Well, as your friend, you have my full support.”

Tanner nodded, satisfied. “I’ll text you the details closer to the date. I’ll cover your flight and hotel.”

Tristan raised an eyebrow. “When did I ever say I was coming?”

Tanner stared at him, incredulous. “Excuse me? You keep calling yourself my friend, but you’re going to skip my birthday? Or do you actually have something better to do that day?”

Tristan shrugged. “Nothing much going on lately.”

“Then why not come?”

He gave a soft laugh. “Depends on Emily Blair. If she’s free, I’ll go. If not, I’ll pass.”

Tanner shot him a look. “You’re bringing her with you?”

Tristan glanced back. “Why, you weren’t planning to invite her?”

“That’s not it. If she’s free, of course you can bring her. I’d actually like to meet the woman who’s got you so smitten.”

Tristan swirled his drink, a grin playing at his lips. “She’s an absolute knockout.”

Steven nodded. “I understand. Our family owes Cynthia an apology. I’ll bring Tristan by to apologize in person.”

“That won’t be necessary,” Mrs. Rivera cut in, her tone firm. “Tristan’s already hurt Cynthia enough. I don’t want her to see him again.”

The Davis family had nothing to say to that.

Mrs. Rivera stood, helping Cynthia to her feet. “Come on, let’s go home. I expect your family to give Cynthia and me some answers about all this.”

Mrs. Davis nodded quickly. “Of course. We will.”

Once the Riveras had left, Steven’s expression darkened. He slammed his palm down on the table. “That boy, Tristan, is getting more and more out of hand.”

Mrs. Davis spoke softly, trying to ease the tension. “But he doesn’t want this, Dad. We shouldn’t force him. Let him find someone he truly loves. Didn’t he just say he’s interested in someone else? Maybe we should let him try.”

Steven scowled, shaking his head. “No. The marriage with the Rivera family is non-negotiable.”