Layla sat poised on her vanity chair, her reflection staring back at her as she skillfully applied a subtle shade of blush to her cheeks. The soft glow of the vanity lights highlighted her features, accentuating her natural beauty.

The door creaked open, and Ethan's tall frame filled the entrance. His smile was warm, but his eyes betrayed a hint of impatience.

"Are you not done yet, Layla? I want us to arrive at the restaurant before he does." His voice was laced with a subtle urgency, a ...