Ayla’s mouth opened, the words she had rehearsed a hundred times ready to tumble out, but—of course—life had other plans. Kiara’s phone rang at the perfect moment, shattering the tense silence like a firecracker in a quiet night. The ringtone was annoyingly cheerful, a stark contrast to the storm brewing inside Ayla’s chest.

“Uhh… guys… I’ll be back in a minute. Y’all continue,” Kiara said breezily, standing up with the casual grace of someone entirely unaware of the emotional landmine she was walking away from. Her hips swayed as she strode toward the corner to take the call, her hair catching the dim light, making it seem almost cinematic, as though the universe itself was highlighting her for maximum effect.