Dinner! (2)

The drive to Emily's house was supposed to be smooth, effortless, a simple ride to dinner.

But from the moment Hugo turned the key in the ignition, he could feel the heavy awkwardness sitting between them like an unwanted third wheel.

The car's expensive leather seats were pristine, the dashboard gleamed, and the soft purr of the engine filled the silence.

But none of it helped.

Emily, who was usually calm and quick to create smooth conversations, was sitting uncharacteristically stiff, her fingers nervously twisting the fabric of her gown as she stared out the window.

Hugo cleared his throat, deciding to break the silence before it stretched into something truly unbearable.

"So, uh… nice weather tonight, huh?"

Emily turned her head slowly, blinking at him like he had just announced his intention to run for president.