The scent of expensive perfume and desperate hope clung to Daphne as she rummaged through her meager wardrobe. “I don’t have anything to wear!” she cried, a familiar lament that belied the monumental night ahead. Her best friend, Jessica, emerged from a pile of discarded clothes, a forced smile barely concealing her true feelings.

Daphne’s four-year long-distance relationship with Daniel was finally culminating tonight. Two years ago, she'd poured her life savings into sponsoring his trip to the States, and now, the reunion she’d dreamt of was hours away. She was conservative, and tonight, she planned to give him her virginity—a sacred celebration of their enduring love.

Jessica, ever the helpful friend, picked a random blue dress, claiming it was 'perfect'. Just then, a chime from Jessica’s phone flashed a message from 'Naughty': I can't wait to have you, tonight sweetheart. Daphne, a fast reader and sharp editor, caught it instantly. “You have a boyfriend now, Jessie? Damn!” she teased playfully.

“I’ll tell you all about it tomorrow. Don't keep Daniel waiting, girl. We got off work early for this,” Jessica urged, pulling Daphne towards the dresser, her movements a little too eager. Jessica applied Daphne's makeup, drove her to the hotel where Daniel was supposedly waiting, and even shared drinks at the bar downstairs. But as Daphne laughed, oblivious, Jessica’s hand moved subtly, dropping a small pill into her wine.