The door creaked softly as it opened, and Freya blinked in surprise. Nicole stood there, radiant and confident, her smile carrying a beautiful warmth.

“Freya,” Nicole greeted cheerfully, her voice laced with familiarity. “Sorry for coming unannounced. Thank you for making my birthday memorable."

Freya straightened quickly, almost unsure how to react. This was the first time she was coming to Daniel's house since she arrived here, but the fact that she stepped in with such ease settled ...