I didn't respond to his question and proceeded to the bathroom, feeling the need to hurry and avoid any potential irritation. It puzzled me when I realized that I was taking Zander's feelings into consideration. In less than ten minutes, I finished my bath, but dressing up and styling my hair took longer, causing me to be ten minutes late instead of the expected thirty minutes.

As I emerged from the bathroom, I noticed Zander's frown, indicating his displeasure. "I can just stay at home if you're pissed," I told him, prompting a sigh from him.

"Let's go," he replied, urging us to continue with our plans.

After a lengthy...