We were reveling in the sheer joy of the moment, fully absorbed in a delightful whirlwind of laughter and playful banter. It was the kind of atmosphere that enveloped us like a cloud of cotton candy—sweet, fluffy, and delightful—when, just like that, a voice sliced through our revelry, breaking the spell cast by our merriment.
“Looks like you’re having fun without me,” chimed a voice, its tone light and teasing, reminiscent of the shimmering laughter that had wrapped around us mere moments ago.
Curiosity bubbled up within us, and we instinctively turned in unison, trying to locate the source of this unexpected interruption. And there she was, Rachel. Descending the staircase with a grace that felt both effortless and slightly awkward, possessing an endearing charm that made it hard to lo
