AFTERMATH OF DESIRE

Meanwhile, Mark and Lily were growing closer, their relationship evolving in ways neither of them had fully anticipated. It had been about three weeks since they first started spending more time together. What began as casual conversations had slowly morphed into something more intimate. They found comfort in each other's company, and the boundaries of their friendship were beginning to blur.

"Mark, it's been about three weeks already since we got to know each other. Having you as a friend is really great. you know." Lily said, her voice light yet laced with something unspoken. They were sitting in the living room. the soft glow of the evening lights casting shadows across their faces.

Mark looked at her, feeling a warmth in his chest that he hadn't expected. "Yes, baby." he replied, almost without thinking. The word 'baby' slipped out so naturally, as if it had always been there, waiting to be spoken between them.

Lily looked at him, her gaze intense. She stood up from the chair,