It was a chilly Friday evening when I found myself at Anna's house, ready to enjoy the weekend. Tonight, however, was different. We had planned to hit some local party after she had polished off her homework. But as the evening unfolded, Anna caught the eye of a cute boy with messy hair and silver bracelets, and I felt her excitement shimmer in the air.

“Go ahead without me!” she urged, her cheeks flushed as she grabbed her phone. “I’ll catch up with you later!”

You hesitated but agreed, feeling the pressure of time urging you to head home. The promise of the party faded as you waved goodbye to Anna, wishing her luck with the charming stranger.

Walking into the familiar warmth of Anna’s house, you found Emily in the kitchen, busy at her side. She looked up, surprised but delighted. “Hey! What are you doing here so early?”

Caught off guard by her radiant smile, you stammered, “Just… thought I’d hang out for a bit."

Emily’s laughter filled the room as she teased, “Just hanging out?"