Loafer

Isabella's expression changed instantly, shutting down the suggestion. "No, you can't."

"Why not?" George's tone was light, but there was a challenge in his eyes. "If Benita and Ms Stranded were welcomed, why can't I be?"

Isabella frowned slightly. "Ms Stranded?"

"Yeah," George said with a teasing tone. "You know, the second loafer who crashed at your place."

"Oh, you mean Dolly?" Isabella blurted out, then caught herself. "And just so you know, she's not a loafer, she's a doctor at one of the top hospitals in the city."

George felt a thrill of triumph wash over him. He had a name and a profession now—Dolly, a doctor. 

The missing puzzle pieces were slowly coming together. But before he could savor the moment, a strange sensation buzzed through his mind, causing him to freeze mid-motion as he lifted his glass to his lips.