His Shortcake

Chapter 44

Tamara Ramirez

I couldn't help but shake my head as Artemis tugged me along in the direction of Apollo. True to her words, we spotted him surrounded by two women who looked to be about our age, their laughter ringing out like chimes in the vibrant atmosphere. They leaned in closer, invading his personal space with playful banter, and Apollo seemed more than happy to encourage their behavior. His hand trailed up the brunette's arm, a gesture so casual that it made me raise an eyebrow.

"You look like you're having fun, Apollo," I said, a grin spreading across my face as Artemis brought us to a stop right in front of them.

Apollo's eyes darted past the brunette to meet ours, and I could see the instant shift in his demeanor. Both women turned their heads, casting glares in our direction as if we were intruders stealing their prize. Unfazed, Apollo quickly excused himself, the charm in his smile disarming the tension. He stood in front of us, a glass of champagne in hand, his posture exuding an easy confidence. "Happy birthday!" he said, his voice warm and genuine as he raised his glass in celebration.

I smiled gratefully at him, feeling the warmth of his presence. "Thank you. I see you cleaned up nicely."

He smirked, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "I always clean up, T." His fingers brushed against his perfectly tied bow tie, an obvious nod to his meticulous nature.

"And attracting the ladies' attention," I added, glancing past him to catch a glimpse of the two women. They stood there, arms crossed and frowns etched on their faces, clearly unhappy that their conversation had been interrupted.

Artemis clicked her tongue, an unladylike sound that broke through the air as she crossed her arms defiantly over her chest. "This happens everywhere. It's getting annoying." Her frustration was palpable, and I could sense her irritation radiating from her.

"Aww. Don't get jealous, sis," Apollo teased, throwing a playful wink at the very annoyed Artemis beside me. His carefree demeanor was infectious, and I couldn't help but shake my head at his usual antics.

"Maybe you should dismiss your new lady friends," I suggested jokingly, nodding toward the two women who hovered behind him like lost puppies, clearly unwilling to give up their claim on Apollo's attention.

He waved a hand dismissively, a grin spreading across his face. "They'll get the message soon enough." The confidence in his tone made it clear he thought he had everything under control.

"You'll regret being a player soon enough," Artemis warned, the threat in her voice sharp and unmistakable. She glared at him, her protective instincts kicking in, but Apollo merely shrugged, unfazed by her concern.

"Well, I'll wait till I do, I guess," he replied casually, finishing his drink in one swift motion before setting the empty glass down on the bar with a satisfying clink. He turned back to me, his expression softening as he extended his hand. "Dance with me, birthday girl."

I glanced at Artemis, who still wore a disapproving expression directed at Apollo and his antics, before placing my half-empty glass on the bar. "Of course," I replied with a smile.

Apollo led me to the dance floor, where a few couples had already gathered, moving rhythmically to the classical music that filled the air. As we swayed together, I was pleasantly surprised by how graceful and gentle he was, each movement fluid and effortless.

"Well, this is new," I remarked, glancing around at our surroundings, catching sight of Dustyn and Alec engrossed in conversation with a group of older men, their discussions seemingly focused more on business than the festive atmosphere of the party.

"I know. I'd be all over a lady by now," Apollo chuckled, a hint of self-deprecation in his voice. "Artemis would be hounding me for it."

Curious, I asked, "What happened to Scarlett?" I wanted to understand why he seemed so open with other girls again. The last time we spoke about her, he was infatuated, yet now he seemed to have reverted to his old self—the Apollo who drew in women like moths to a flame.