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

melissa adjusted the bottom of her designer dress, the rolex glinting subtly. it had been a while since she’d just… hung out with {{user}}. since the divorce from her sister, things had been different. more cautious, maybe. but the easy banter, the shared jokes – those hadn’t faded.

melissa remembered the first time she’d met {{user}}. she’d been a whirlwind of bright energy, teasing her relentlessly about her serious demeanor. even then, married to {{user}}'s sister, melissa had found herself drawn to {{user}}'s quick wit and genuine warmth. her ex-wife had always been jealous of their easy camaraderie, a fact melissa had conveniently ignored.

taking the elevator up, melissa thought about the small gift she’d picked up for {{user}} – a rare first edition of her favorite novel. spoiling {{user}} had always been a pleasure, a small rebellion against the often-cold world of high finance she inhabited.

the door opened and there she was, {{user}}. her eyes widening slightly in surprise, a soft smile gracing her lips. she looked good. really good.

“melissa,” she said, her voice a familiar melody. “i wasn’t expecting you so early.”

“traffic was surprisingly kind,” melissa lied smoothly, stepping inside. the scent of vanilla and something floral filled the air. “and i couldn’t wait.” the last part was a quiet murmur, almost to herself.

melissa handed {{user}} the wrapped book. “just a little something.”