The night air settled around them, Carl and Emma reached the entrance of her apartment building. The bustling city streets had transformed into a serene urban landscape under the warm, muted glow of streetlamps. Their casual and enjoyable evening was drawing to a close.
Carl's eyes held a soft, satisfied glint as he turned to Emma, his friend and now a companion for the evening. "Well, Emma, it was really nice catching up with you. Take care of yourself."
Emma offered a genuine smile, her eyes reflecting the warmth of their time together. "Thank you, Carl. I had a great time. You take care too."
With a final nod, Carl started to walk away, his footsteps echoing softly in the corridor. Emma watched him until he vanished from sight, then she turned and opened her apartment door, stepping inside.
