The soft light of dawn crept through the curtains, illuminating the cozy, disheveled bed where Riley and Alistair lay. Their heads pounded from the aftermath of last night, the unmistakable haze of a hangover dulling their senses. The gentle hum of the city outside was interrupted by the sharp, insistent buzz of the doorbell, startling both of them awake.
Riley stirred first, her eyes fluttering open as she processed the unfamiliar weight of Alistair's arm draped across her waist. Memories of the night before came rushing back in vivid detail—the shared drinks, their laughter, and the connection that had deepened into something far more intimate. Her heart raced as she turned to look at Alistair, who was now stirring awake as well.
The buzzing at the door grew louder, persistent and dema
