After Oliver’s friends had bid their farewells and departed, leaving the living room wrapped in a tranquil hush, a flicker of intrigue ignited in Elena’s mind. The subtle shift in the atmosphere didn’t go unnoticed by her, and a spontaneous notion began to take shape. Her gaze, once following her friends out the door, now found its way back to Oliver, who was settling onto the couch with an air of contentment.

As if a secret pact had been formed between her thoughts and actions, a mischievous smile curved Elena’s lips. The glint in her eyes held a playful promise as she regarded Oliver. A hint of anticipation hung in...