“Deal.” They shook on it.

“Kamila, what exactly are you wearing?” Asha asked. “Shit. Was there supposed to be a Breakfast at Tiffany’s theme tonight?”

Kamila ignored her and took out the next batch of momos from the steamer. The rest of the guests—but not Anil—arrived in quick succession, and soon all were huddled around the dining table holding fancy plates and munching on paneer kebobs and momos. Everyone agreed the food was incredible. When the biryani arrived, people cheered.

Kamila was spooning the biryani onto a platter when she noticed Dane was talking to Maricel. Excellent. She joined them when she was done, hoping to get a feel for how their true love was progressing.

Dane grinned at Kamila after she said hello. “Maricel was just telling me about the movie we’re watching tonight.”

“Yes, Amar, Akbar, Anthony. It’s an old-school bonkers Bollywood classic. Do you follow Bollywood?”

“I’ve been doing some research since you first invited me. I haven’t heard of this title, though.”

“It’s fab. I used to watch it once a week when I was a kid but haven’t seen it in ages. Have you seen it, Maricel?”

“No. I’ve only seen—”

“Maricel?” Asha called out. She was across the room with Tim and Jerome. “What was it you told me about that organic baker selling cupcakes at the Dogapalooza? They needed an extra table or something? Tim’s putting in the order for the rentals tomorrow.”

“Wasn’t it that they needed shorter tables?” Kamila asked. Maricel had spoken to the vendor, and Kamila didn’t know details.

“Higher, actually,” Maricel said. “Bar height. I’ll talk to Tim.” She smiled apologetically before excusing herself.

“She looks gorgeous tonight, doesn’t she?” Kamila said. “I love that dress. Pink is so her color.”

“She does look great. You have great taste.”

“So how are you settling in? Is Byte getting comfortable with the neighborhood?”

Dane sighed. “Not yet. He’s a nightmare at home. Ruined the backs of three dining chairs. He’s lonely. Byte is always happier when I have a girlfriend to spoil him.”

Kamila’s eyes widened. “Ah, did you know Maricel is a dog trainer? I’m helping her open her own dog school soon.” She glanced at Maricel, still talking to Tim.

Dane followed Kamila’s gaze and smiled. “You have such great friends. These parties are a great way to get to know so many great people.”

First, holy wow, Dane said the word great a lot. Second, squee! He was so into Maricel and he wanted to get to know her better. As Dane would say, this was all great.

There was a knock at the door. Kamila excused herself, but Rohan beat her to open it.

“Anil, my friend!” Rohan did that manly bro-pat-on-the-back thing, then brought the man of the hour in to meet Kamila.

“Kam, this is Anil Malek. Anil, my old friend Kamila Hussain.”