The Wrong Woman

"Dan's back?"

"Daniel, why were you so late today? Were you busy?"

"Daniel, would it be okay if Sienna stays at our place?"

"Is everything okay with you?"

Daniel couldn't make out a single word amidst the noisy chatter of his family. He looked at Sienna with an intense gaze, feeling like he'd forgotten how to breathe, his heart racing.

Mila leaned close to Nathan, her hand muffling her soft giggles as she whispered, "Nate, did you notice how Daniel's looking at her? It's obvious he's smitten."

Nathan chuckled affectionately and caressed her head as he murmured, "Perhaps you should focus on my gaze instead of eyeing other guys."

"Let's play matchmaker for them," Mila suggested.

"Let's leave them be. We'll see how things play out," Nathan replied.

"But-"

gently held Mila's head, drawing her nearer as he whispered, "Forced relationships rarely end well. It seems your friend might not be as keen on him

a puzzled expression crossing his

the couch directly across from Sienna. After

increasingly uncomfortable, as if she were

calm,

her name. She met Daniel's gaze with nervousness, trying to appear composed as she responded, "Yes?" "How's Mrs. Lawson and Felix been lately?" Daniel asked politely, prompting curious looks from everyone else in

felt lost, unsure how to respond to such a heartbreaking question with so many people. listening. Sadness flooded her, but she forced herself to keep

everyone else's mood. So, despite her true feelings, she uttered, "They're both doing

speaking, she lowered her head. Tears welled up in

to say something else but faltered; his words stuck in

apologetic nod. "Sorry, everyone. I'm feeling a bit

encouraged her, "Sure, go ahead. Go freshen up

goodnight, Sienna left the living

watched her leave, then slumped lifelessly