Chapter 27 Just A Friend

• The morning sun, usually a gentle visitor, seemed to pulse with an almost frantic energy through Zara’s bedroom window. Leo said to meet again the next morning that he just wanted to see her face the night before She stood before her full-length mirror, a battlefield of discarded clothing surrounding her. Her hands hovered between a soft, flowing sundress and a pair of sleek, tailored trousers. It wasn't just about choosing an outfit; it was about curating a feeling, an unspoken message. Excitement buzzed through her veins, thin and effervescent, laced with the familiar thrum of nerves. She finally settled on a pristine white fitted top that hugged her curves just right, high-waisted dark-wash jeans that elongated her legs, and a soft beige trench coat that draped elegantly, adding an air of effortless sophistication.
• Her fingers trembled slightly as she applied minimal makeup just enough to highlight her eyes, to make them sparkle. She let her hair fall in soft, natural curls, and then, with a hint of daring, applied the faintest shimmer gloss to her lips, remembering Leo’s casual comment from a few days ago: "That gloss… it makes your smile look dangerously sweet." A warm flush bloomed on her cheeks at the memory.
• As she adjusted the collar of her trench coat, a soft knock echoed at her door. Her dad’s head peeked in, his eyes, usually sharp with the details of his morning news, widening slightly as he took her in.