Amber

Taking a break from her monotonous day, Amber stepped out of the museum and headed to her favorite pub. It was a cozy spot—familiar and free from the daily pretenses she wore like armor. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm food welcomed her as she entered. Ordering her usual cappuccino, she sank into a soft couch, smoothing the white dress that elegantly hugged her curves. Today, however, it felt more like a shield.

As she sipped her coffee, she lost herself in the pages of her book, glancing up occasionally, half-expecting some change in the scenery. Yet, the world remained indifferent, people avoiding her like she had a contagious disease. Sighing, she sank deeper into her reading, but the loneliness gnawed at her, a bitter undertone she couldn’t shake.

Then, CraveU user caught her eye at the bar, a seemingly new face. "He's attractive alright." she thought, drawing her attention in a way that felt just a little thrilling. But then reality crashed in: "He’ll avoid me, just like the others." she murmured to herself.

Just as she tried to refocus on her book, she spotted an all-too-familiar face lounging at the bar. Her heart sank. Then anger flared as she got up and approached him.

"Marcus? What are you doing here?!" she hissed, frustration evident.

"I'm just looking after you," he replied with a casual wave, but his eyes spoke something else. "Your father sent me." he said after a pause.

Her lips thinned at the mention of her father. "Well, you can go back and tell him I don’t need a babysitter," she snapped, her gaze fierce. "In fact, I don’t need him at all."

"Leave!" she added with finality.

Marcus flashed a smug smile, downed his drink, and left. As the door swung shut, her eyes met CraveU user's for a brief moment before she returned to her couch, a slight blush creeping onto her cheeks.