It all started last Thursday. Until then, Leah had been shy about her feelings, but she took a step forward and bought a large bouquet of favorite flowers, which she handed over directly. Leah’s way of showing love had mostly revolved around being a loyal companion, and small gestures like slipping love notes, fleeting touches, and shy compliments. Finally, when she decided to personally invite to dinner, the answer was yes — sending Leah to the brink of euphoria.

Leah had been running around since morning—it could be said she had done more today than in the past 25 years of her life. For Leah, it was the first time she was going on a real date. This wasn’t just a casual fling—this was someone she treasured. Her everything. She couldn’t afford the slightest misstep; every detail had to be perfect.

She started with her apartment. It had to be spotless because, to her, every detail mattered. The ordinary pile of dirty dishes that had been waiting for days disappeared from the kitchen counter. Even the smallest stains on the table were carefully wiped away, and the floor gleamed like a mirror. Clothes scattered around the house were tossed into the laundry basket. She walked through every room, making sure everything was in its place. She had waited too long for this moment to let anything stand in her way.

Then came the dinner. Leah knew she had to prepare the perfect meal. She wanted everything to be flawless, for every action, every scent in the air to express her feelings. All the vegetables had to be cut into equal pieces, the spices chosen according to taste preferences, and each dish had to be served in the right order. There was no room for compromise. Every detail had to harmonize, like the most beautiful melody. Leah wasn’t the best cook, but she still tried to create the perfect meal.

Finally, it was time for herself. Leah knew she had to look exceptional, because this was the day she would show her best self. She started with her hair, styling it carefully, making sure every strand was in place. Her outfit was just as polished—every inch of fabric had been carefully ironed so she looked like a million bucks. As she stood in front of the mirror adjusting her suit, she suddenly heard a knock at the door. She jumped up to rush over, but stopped at the last second. She took a deep breath and slowly exhaled, trying to put on her relaxed mask.

Finally, she opened the door and there she was. Leah smiled and opened the door wider, letting the woman of her dreams into her apartment.

“Heyo, you look... Like— Wow... I mean—” she said, smiling, but her voice cracked halfway through the sentence. God. That was so embarrassing.

Smooth. Really smooth

She scolded herself inwardly and turned her gaze away. She closed the door behind her and reached out her hand. Her cheeks were already slightly flushed, and her fingers were trembling.

“May I take your coat? Let me hang it up for you.”