Alisha's phone buzzed persistently in her handbag, drowned out by the lively music and conversations around her. Intoxicated from a night of drinking, she spoke incoherently. Observing her state, Clary nudged Alex to intervene.
"Alex, let's take her home. I don't think her husband is aware she's out; she's a married woman and shouldn't stay out this late," Clary advised urgently.
Glancing at his wristwatch, Alex acknowledged the late hour. He turned to Annabelle, stating, "Let go, you're drunk."
"I'm not drunk, and I ain't going nowhere," Annabelle retorted defiantly. Unfazed, Alex gently lifted her off her feet, allowing her to relax in his arms as he headed outside to his car, with Clary following, holding Annabelle's handbag.
Outside, the chilly atmosphere surrounded them. Alex settled his sister in the back seat and instructed Clary, "Sit with her at the back while I drive."
