Vanessa
The question hung heavy in the air, catching me off guard. It was the same question swirling in my own mind, yet somehow, I hadn't managed to voice it.
"Why are you asking, Patrick?" I countered, surprised by his bluntness.
"Well, you two are best friends, aren't you?" he replied, a knowing glint in his eye. "Seems like you'd be the one to know."
"We are," I confirmed, chewing on my lip. "But honestly, I can't say for sure. They could be dating, or it could just be a friendly thing."
Patrick chuckled, a low rumble that hinted at a deeper amusement. "Vanessa, Vanessa," he said, shaking his head playfully. "I have a sixth sense about these things. That emphasis on their 'plans' and the way Anna practically glued herself to Paloma? All signs point to a budding romance."
