Chapter 4
Over the next few days, Emma and Tom text each other constantly. They talk about everything from their favorite movies to their future aspirations, and Emma feels like she's getting to know Tom better with each passing day.
One afternoon, Tom suggests they meet up for dinner. Emma agrees, feeling a little nervous but excited at the prospect of spending more time with him.
As they sit across from each other at the restaurant, Emma can't help but feel a little self-conscious. She's dressed up in a nice outfit and spent extra time on her makeup, but she can't shake the feeling that she's not quite as cool or laid-back as Tom.
But as they talk and laugh over dinner, Emma starts to relax. Tom is so easy to talk to, and she finds herself opening up to him in ways she hasn't with anyone else.
After dinner, Tom suggests they go to a nearby bar for a drink. Emma agrees, feeling a little giddy as they walk into the dimly-lit space.
As they sit at the bar, sipping cocktails and talking, Emma can't help but feel a growing attraction to Tom. She likes the way he looks at her, like she's the only person in the room. And she can't deny the chemistry between them as their fingers brush against each other on the bar.
As the night wears on, Tom suggests they take a walk. Emma agrees, feeling a little drunk but exhilarated by the prospect of spending more time with him.
As they walk through the quiet streets, Tom takes Emma's hand. Emma feels a jolt of electricity as their fingers entwine, and she looks up at him, feeling like she's on top of the world.
But just as she's about to lean in for a kiss, her phone buzzes in her pocket. She pulls away, feeling a little disappointed, and checks the message. It's an urgent work email from her boss, asking her to come in early the next morning.
Emma groans, feeling like the real world is intruding on this perfect moment. Tom looks at her sympathetically.
"I guess it's time to go home," he says, giving her hand a squeeze.
Emma nods, feeling a little wistful as they walk back to her apartment. She can't help but wonder what might have happened if she hadn't gotten that work email. But as she falls asleep that night, she knows one thing for sure - she can't wait to see Tom again.