Acknowledge your growing feelings for David and suggest staying at the bar and treating this as a first date.

You take a deep breath and meet David's intense gaze, suddenly aware of how naturally you've fallen into this dynamic with him. Whatever is happening between you feels both impossible and inevitable.

"I know this is all happening fast," you admit, your voice softening. "But I'm enjoying it. Maybe we could stay a bit longer? Call this our...first date?"

David's expression shifts from surprise to pleasure, the corners of his eyes crinkling as he smiles. "I'd like that," he says, his fingers intertwining with yours. "Though I think technically the shopping trip was our first date."

"That doesn't count," you laugh. "Clara was there."

"Speaking of Clara," David nods toward the bar where she's still chatting with Ryan, "aren't you mad at her?"

You glance over at your friend, considering. "I should be. The Jamie thing was a dirty trick. But she's been amazing otherwise—helping me shop, showing me around." You pause, remembering how quickly she accepted 'Mia' without question. "Plus, it was kind of satisfying to shut Jamie down."

David chuckles, his thumb tracing circles on your palm. "It was. The look on his face when you called me your boyfriend..."

"Let's invite them to join us," you suggest, nodding toward Clara and Ryan. "I want to make things right with him too. I feel bad for taking his drink before mentioning you."

"Generous of you," David murmurs, raising your hand to his lips for a brief kiss that sends tingles racing up your arm.

You wave Clara and Ryan over. Clara approaches with a slightly guilty expression, while Ryan follows with cautious interest.

"Am I forgiven?" Clara asks, sliding into a chair.

"This time," you reply with mock severity. "But only because you've been such a good friend otherwise."

Clara beams, relief washing over her features. "You're the best, Mia. And look—" she gestures to Ryan, "—your little matchmaking attempt is working out. Ryan's taking me to dinner next Friday."

"Already planning the second date?" David asks, raising an eyebrow.

Ryan grins, settling beside Clara. "When you know, you know."

The four of you fall into easy conversation, ordering a round of drinks and appetizers. You find yourself nestling closer to David, his arm draped casually around your shoulders. Each time he speaks, you feel the rumble of his voice against your side, sending little shivers of pleasure through you.

As Ryan tells a story about a disastrous client presentation, you catch David watching you instead of listening. His dark eyes are fixed on your lips, hunger evident in his gaze. When you meet his eyes, he doesn't look away—just gives you a slow, deliberate smile that makes your core tighten with anticipation.

"Another round?" Clara suggests as the server passes by.

David's hand slides to your thigh under the table, his fingers tracing delicate patterns against the thin fabric of your dress. "Actually," he says, his voice low enough that only you can hear, "I was thinking we might want to head back soon. I still have dinner waiting at home."

The way he says "home" sends a flutter through your stomach—as if it's a place you share, a sanctuary for just the two of you.

21:30 | Sunday 3 August 2025 | Ember Lounge, London

[Comfort Mode Level 2] | 00:45 hours remaining