“No, I was completely fine,” I reassured her, trying my hardest to keep my voice steady and calm despite the depth of the turmoil roiling within me. My heartbeat quickened with every passing moment, and I felt an urgent need for discretion. “But I will be checking on someone over there. Come here; I have a secret to tell you.” The urgency in my tone was impossible to ignore; it hung in the air thick and electric. I leaned in closer, cautious of anyone who might overhear us. After all, the shadow of paparazzi could loom anywhere, and I was determined to reveal my news on my own terms when the moment felt just right.
Nicole stepped closer, her interest visibly piqued, curiosity dancing in her eyes like fireflies on a summer night. She leaned in slightly, making the atmosphere between us fee
