Alex finally turned around and noticed that there were three women in the room. He quickly swept his eyes over them, taking in their comfortable position. As his gaze settled on Emma, she lifted her teacup to her lips and took a sip.

"My, my," he drawled, "aren't we the best of friends?"

All three women shot him irritated glances. Alex looked a trifle disgruntled at their collective unfavorable response to his presence.

Author: Julia Quinn