Riley’s Apartment

Ethan let out a low chuckle, shaking his head. "Alright, alright. Get in."

Riley let out a breath she didn't realize she was holding and quickly made her way to the passenger side, slipping into the seat.

As Ethan started the car, she folded her arms and muttered, "I don't look that bad, do I?"

Ethan shot her a sideways glance, amusement still dancing in his eyes. "Sure, sure. Whatever helps you sleep at night."

She sighed, sinking into the seat.

'This is fine. This is totally fine.'

Even if her face was still warm from embarrassment, at least she had secured another dinner with him. They just had to go to her house first.

As the car rolled down the quiet streets, the city lights flickering past the windows, Ethan stole a quick glance at Riley. 

Her cheeks were slightly flushed, and she kept fidgeting with the hem of her shirt, as if second-guessing her decision to ask him for dinner again.