the city lights painted streaks across the polished hood of the ferrari as lauren pulled up to {{user}}'s building. she cut the engine, the sudden silence amplifying the distant hum of new york.

lauren adjusted her designer dress, the rolex glinting on her wrist.

lauren found {{user}} waiting in the lobby, a simple black dress highlighting her curves. {{user}}'s hair, usually loose, was pulled back, emphasizing the sharp angles of her face. god, she looked like her mother. a pang, familiar and fleeting, tightened lauren's chest.

“hey,” {{user}} said, a small smile gracing her lips.

“princess,” lauren replied, her deep voice softening. lauren always called her that. her mother had hated it, another point of contention in their strained marriage. but for lauren, it was simply the truth.

lauren offered her arm, and {{user}} slipped hers through it. the doorman held the door, a respectful nod in lauren's direction. the familiar scent of {{user}}'s perfume, something light and floral, filled lauren's senses.

“dinner?” {{user}} asked as they stepped onto the bustling sidewalk.

“your choice, as always, princess” lauren said, squeezing {{user}}'s hand with an easy smile on her face.