Invitation Home

The gallery night had been magical soft lighting, vibrant art, and Sage by my side the entire time. Her laugh echoed in my ears as we stepped outside afterward, only for the sky to open up in a sudden downpour. Rain hammered the pavement, turning the streets into glistening rivers. We huddled under the gallery awning, but it offered little protection.

Sage checked her phone, then glanced at me with that familiar playful smile. “My apartment is just two blocks away. Yours is much farther. Come wait out the storm at my place?” She paused, her hazel eyes softening. “Easy on me no pressure, Elara. Just wine, dry...