Meanwhile, Mia stood up from the couch with a soft, shy smile, her crimson dress still hugging her curves. "I'll show you to the guest room, Stan."
She led him down the short hallway, her hand lightly holding his. At the door, she paused, rising onto her toes to give him a quick, sweet peck on the cheek. Her full lips lingered for a heartbeat longer than necessary, warm and tender.
"Have a good rest," she whispered, eyes shimmering with unspoken longing. "And thank you again… for everything."
Stan watched her disappear into her own room before stepping inside the modest guest bedroom. It was simple but comfortable; a neatly made bed, fresh linens, and the faint scent of lavender from the towels Edith had left out.
He undressed to his boxers and settled under the covers, the day's events replaying in his mind. Exhaustion pulled at him, but sleep didn't come easily.
