Sarah's heart pounded as the knocking persisted, each rap against the door amplifying the dread that coursed through her veins. She knew she had to act fast, to diffuse the situation before it spiraled out of control.
Turning to Tyler, she placed a finger against his lips, silencing his protests. "That will be my boyfriend," she whispered urgently. "Act like you were fixing a pipe or something."
Tyler's brow furrowed in confusion, but Sarah's pleading gaze left no room for argument. With a reluctant nod, he straightened his rumpled clothing and strode towards the door.
Sarah took a deep breath, steeling herself for the confrontation to come. She smoothed her hair and adjusted her disheveled appearance as best she could before following in Tyler's wake.
Flinging the door open, she plastered a bright smile on her face. "Thank you so much," she gushed, her voice laced with false cheer. "I don't know what I would have done without your help."