Standing in front of the mirror, I adjusted the hem of my dress for what felt like the hundredth time. The sleek black fabric hugged my body in all the right places, a bold choice for me, but tonight wasn’t about playing it safe. Ethan had requested I arrive early, I was so nervous I don't know why but I wanted to look perfect for him.
As I leaned closer to fix a stray curl, my phone buzzed on the dresser. My heart leaped, assuming it was Ethan, maybe checking in or sending one of his teasing messages that always left me smiling. I grabbed the phone eagerly, but my excitement faded as Max’s name flashed on the screen.
I frowned, hesitating for a moment before unlocking it. His message was short, paired with a link to an article:
"So much for that relationship."
Intrigued despite myself
