Hayden’s first-person POV,
A few hours before the New Year’s party, my apartment door swung open and Sareena breezed in like a glamorous storm—arms full of bags, a bottle of sparkling wine tucked under one arm, and a smirk on her lips.
“I come bearing gifts,” she announced, hoisting the wine like a trophy. “And caffeine. Because trust me, we’re going to need both.”
I laughed, relief washing over me at the sight of her. It had been a long few weeks—filled with tension, secrets, and half-truths I was still trying to unravel. But for the moment, I let it all go. “You’re a lifesaver,” I said, taking a few of the bags from her. “I have no idea what I’m doing with my hair for something like this.”
“That’s why I’m here,” she said with a wink, already kicking off her boots. “Consider me your
