30

Ciara Mendes

Standing in front of the mirror, I gaze at my reflection, questioning whether I had chosen the right outfit. I decided on a light pink long-sleeve lace-front crop blouse paired with black skinny jeans and a set of peep-toe knee-high boots. Even though my hair was already straight, I flat-ironed it to perfection. To finish my look, I put in silver hoop earrings and added a touch of gloss to my lips.

I stood there, contemplating whether to change my outfit or not. I had no idea where we were going; all he had said was to dress comfortably. For me, comfortable meant a pair of sweatpants and a tube top—an outfit I would have thrown on if it weren't a date. Just then, the doorbell rang, signaling that he had arrived, leaving me no time to change. Glancing at the clock, I saw it was five minutes past five. After work, I had rushed home to shower and get ready, feeling jittery as if it were our very first date.

Giovanni stood on the other side of the door, clad in a fitt