The air conditioner hummed a monotonous tune, a soundtrack to the silence that had settled between Benedict and Paulina in the backseat. The world outside, a blur of manicured lawns and identical houses, seemed to mirror the stillness within the car. Paulina, usually a whirlwind of energy, felt a creeping sense of boredom.
She'd been looking forward to the company party, picturing a night of lively conversation and shared laughter with Benedict. But he was being uncharacteristically quiet, his gaze fixed on the passing scenery with a distant look.
"So," Paulina began tentatively, her voice barely above a whisper. "What do you think of my overall look? Do you think I'll be the most beautiful woman at the party?"
Benedict merely shrugged, his eyes still glued to the window. "It's...fine,"
