yes

Emily barely had time to duck back behind the counter before the woman left the bathroom. She glanced over her shoulder, her childish purse bouncing at her side as she walked back to her boyfriend. For a moment, Emily thought she was safe—until she noticed the woman leaning in to whisper something to the man. His eyes flicked to Emily, a knowing smirk curling at the corners of his mouth.

Emily's stomach dropped. Oh no, they know.

She scrambled to look busy, fumbling with a coffee cup as the couple approached the counter to retrieve their drinks. The man reached for his coffee, his voice calm and friendly as he said, "Thanks for the drinks."

His eyes locked onto Emily’s with an intensity that made her cheeks burn. Then, to her surprise, he leaned in slightly and spoke softly enough that only she could hear.

“Curiosity can be dangerous, you know. But it’s also the first step to discovery.”

Emily blinked, unsure how to respond. Before she could think of anything, the woman chimed in, her voice bubbly and innocent. “Daddy, shouldn’t we invite her? She seems like she’s interested.”

The man chuckled, giving Emily a glance that was equal parts teasing and sincere. “Only if she wants to. What do you say?” He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small card, sliding it across the counter to her. It had no name, just a phone number and the words ‘For when you’re ready to explore.’

Emily stared at the card, her heart racing. “I… I don’t know,” she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper.

The man tilted his head slightly. “No pressure. But sometimes it’s better to ask questions in person, don’t you think?” With that, he gave her a wink and guided the woman toward the door, leaving Emily standing behind the counter with the card clutched in her hand and her mind spinning.