Her expression softened, and she leaned into my touch, the warmth of her skin a stark contrast to the coolness of the room. "It's okay," she whispered, her voice trembling slightly. "I just... I miss you."
"Don't worry, let's hang out today," I said, taking a sip of the tea that Ratika had brought us. Its warmth spread through me, a comforting contrast to the chill that lingered from the previous night's encounters. "After I drop Ratika at her home, I'll call you."
"Thank you," Liya whispered, her eyes brimming with gratitude. The warmth of the room had returned with her smile, and I felt a weight lift from my chest. "I'll be waiting."
As Ratika finished packing the last of her things, she called out to us, her voice filled with excitement. She emerged from her room, a duffle bag slung over her shoulder and a small suitcase in hand. She looked at us, her eyes shining with hope. "Ready to go?"
