Ross's life had settled back into a comfortable rhythm. School was no longer a mundane chore but an enjoyable escape where he could bask in the adoration of peers, revel in his reputation, and spend quality time with his girlfriends and friends.
With wealth, fame, and power at his disposal, Ross was living the dream. For once, he found little to complain about in his seemingly perfect life.
Even Mary, who had once been distant, was slowly bridging the gap between them. She played her cards carefully, inching closer to Ross day by day, weaving her way into his circle with subtle gestures and carefully chosen words.
It was a slow dance of trust and familiarity, and Ross, despite his sharp instincts, was allowing her to get closer—perhaps out of curiosity, or perhaps because it amused him.
Everything seemed to be going his way until an unexpected message arrived, introducing a new twist to his otherwise predictable routine.
