From Wallflower to Guardian

A comfortable silence stretched between them, punctuated only by the chirping crickets. Nadia, surprised by how easily she'd conversed with Liam, found herself genuinely enjoying this unexpected respite.

Suddenly, the quiet was shattered by Elina's voice, laced with a hint of panic. "Nadia? There you are! I've been looking everywhere for you."

Elina felt like Liam was going to say something but stopped halfway.

Elina skidded to a halt in front of them, her eyes wide. Relief battled with a touch of disappointment in their depths. Liam straightened from the railing, a smile playing on his lips.

"Hey, Elina," he greeted casually. "Just found Nadia out here enjoying the night air."

Elina's gaze darted between them, taking in the relaxed posture and easy conversation. A slow smile spread across her face, a silent apology for interrupting the budding connection.

"Well, Nadia," Elina began, her voice softer than usual. "Everyone's asking about you. You're the mystery baker in the stunning blue dress, causing quite a stir!"

Nadia felt a familiar blush creep up her neck. The attention, while flattering, was still a little overwhelming. She glanced at Liam, seeking a silent understanding.

"Maybe I can coerce Nadia back inside for just one dance," Elina offered, her eyes twinkling. "But then, fresh air is important too. Especially for bakers who need to be up at the crack of dawn, right?"

Nadia let out a small laugh, appreciating Elina's attempt at a compromise. She looked back at Liam, a silent question hanging in the air.

"Looks like the party isn't over for you yet," Liam said with a smile, a hint of regret in his voice. "But hey, at least you have a personal bodyguard now." He winked at Elina, who playfully swatted his arm.

Taking a deep breath, Nadia straightened her dress. Maybe, she thought, one dance wouldn't hurt. After all, the night had already taken a surprising turn, and who knew what other unexpected moments awaited her under the disco ball's glow?

Elina swept Nadia back inside, Liam trailing close behind. The music throbbed anew, the flashing lights momentarily disorienting. Elina, however, was in her element. She plunged into the dancing crowd, her fiery hair whipping around her face as she threw herself into the rhythm.

Nadia watched from the sidelines, a hesitant smile playing on her lips. Elina, a whirlwind of energy and enthusiasm, seemed to thrive in this chaotic environment. A pang of envy, quickly squashed by affection, shot through Nadia. Maybe some people were just wired differently. She felt someone staring at her. Before she could take a peek to find out who it was.

Suddenly, Elina materialized beside her, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Come on, Nadia! Don't be a wallflower! Let's boogie!"

Nadia shrank back instinctively. "Elina, I don't—"

Before she could finish, Elina grabbed her hand and yanked her into the dancing throng. Nadia stumbled, her steps awkward and uncoordinated. The proximity to swaying bodies and flailing limbs sent a wave of panic through her.

Just as she was about to protest again, Elina stumbled, her foot catching on someone else's. Nadia instinctively reached out, her reflexes honed from years of navigating a crowded kitchen, and steadied her friend.

Elina, breathless and giggling, gave Nadia a sheepish grin. "See? You saved me from a dance floor disaster!"

Nadia scanned Elina's face, noticing a slight flush creeping up her neck and a glassy sheen in her eyes. A familiar worry tugged at her heart.

"Elina," Nadia said gently, "I think you've had a bit too much to drink. How about we call it a night?"

Elina pouted playfully. "But the party's just getting started! Besides, you promised one dance."

"Okay, one slow dance," Nadia conceded, more worried than she cared to admit. "Then, we're going home."

They found a quiet corner, the flashing lights momentarily dimmed. Nadia wrapped her arm around Elina's waist, guiding her in a slow sway. Despite the music, a comfortable silence settled between them.

"You look amazing, Nadia," Elina slurred, her voice thick. "Seriously, that dress is killer."

Nadia chuckled, touched by the compliment. "Thanks, Elina. You don't look bad yourself, even with the slight stumble."

Elina giggled, then leaned heavily against Nadia. Concern gnawed at Nadia. She has reached her threshold.

"Elina, listen," Nadia said firmly. "You have had enough. I'm calling a cab. We're going home."

Elina mumbled something incoherent but didn't resist. Relief flooded Nadia as she pulled out her phone. Maybe, she thought, this wasn't exactly the fun night out Elina had envisioned, but at least she'd managed to keep her friend safe.

Stepping outside her comfort zone, it seemed, wasn't just about dancing and loud music. Sometimes, it was about looking out for the people you cared about, even if it meant cutting a night short. And she liked this little adventure more than she thought.

And she had not thought about the letter at all.