"Kim, please. You have to help me," she whispered, her voice tinged with urgency. "I know I'm springing this on you out of nowhere, and I don't even know if you're single or not. But I'm desperate. I only have tonight. Please."
She barely gave Kim a moment to respond before excusing herself. "Wait here," she added hurriedly, offering a faint, apologetic smile. "I'd planned a dessert. I'll go and prepare it."
Aiden, who had been on the verge of excusing himself as well, paused mid-motion, watching her retreat with a faint frown etched onto his face. His brow furrowed slightly, and he appeared deep in thought as she disappeared into the next room.
