“I'LL simply take a cab," Paisley declared, understanding the tension between Rena and Waylen.

Reluctantly, Rena hailed a taxi for Paisley.

Her eyes were fixed on her friend's diminishing silhouette as it disappeared into the starlit night.

Overwhelmed with a profound sense of loss, Rena found herself standing alone in the darkness, grappling with her emotions.

"Rena," a voice called out, pulling her attention away from her melancholic thoughts.