Chapter_94
Olivia turned back to face him, her curiosity piqued. “Yes, I am. Are you… Claude?” she asked cautiously, still unsure.
The man smiled warmly, his expression relaxed and easygoing. “Yes, I am,” he confirmed. “It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’ve heard a lot about Sophie’s friends.”
Olivia nodded, still a bit taken aback. “I didn’t expect to meet you here tonight,” she said. “Sophie mentioned you were coming, but she’s been busy.”
Claude chuckled lightly, a sound that seemed to match his easy-going nature. “I’ve been meaning to get here earlier, but some work came up. You know how it is,” he said, a hint of amusement in his voice. “Anyway, I’m glad I ran into you. Sophie tells me you’re quite close.”
Olivia smiled politely, though she felt somewhat out of place. The tension of the evening had been building in her since she arrived, and this interaction, though kind, only made her feel a little more disconnected from the event.
“Well, I’ve been keeping to myself tonight,” she admitted. “Not really my scene, if I’m being honest.”
Claude’s expression softened, and he nodded in understanding. “I get that. This kind of gathering isn’t for everyone. Sometimes it’s nice to just step outside for a breather.”
Olivia couldn’t help but agree. The noise and constant chatter had become overwhelming, and she had needed the space to clear her head.
“I was just trying to get some air,” she explained, looking up at the night sky. “It’s much quieter out here.”
Claude looked over at her, his gaze thoughtful. “I get it. Parties like these can be a lot to take in.” He paused for a moment before adding, “If you need someone to talk to or if you’re feeling out of place, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m sure Sophie would want you to feel comfortable.”
Olivia appreciated his kindness but felt conflicted. She wasn’t used to opening up to people she barely knew, and yet something about Claude’s demeanor made her feel at ease, if only for a moment.
“I’ll keep that in mind,” she said, offering him a small smile.
Claude gave her a casual nod and stepped back slightly, as if giving her the space she might need. “Well, I won’t keep you from your fresh air any longer. Just take it easy in there,” he said, with a final friendly smile before turning back toward the bar.
Olivia watched him go, her mind still preoccupied with the various events that had led her to this moment. Though her encounter with Claude had been brief, it had given her a slight sense of reprieve from the tension that had been hanging over her all night.