Having left his previous group, Emir strolled through the backyard, taking in the warm scene.
Sounds of laughter, chatter, and the clinking of glasses filled the space, a sign that their party was well underway.
Even those who lost their friends had momentarily relaxed, enjoying themselves for they knew that tomorrow would arrive and with it, grief would resurface.
Emir, who passed by a group of hunters that saluted him, paused a fair distance away from Emma and Jake who sat at the corner.
Emma's cheeks were flushed as she drank cup after cup, her eyes clouded with whatever thoughts she was drowning.
Jake was leaning close, his voice low and insistent, clearly trying to convince her of something.
'She'll get over it.'
Emir's gaze lingered for a moment before moving on.
About ten steps away, Ragnar and Jamal stood by a table, plates half-full and bottles in hand.
