#Chapter 165: Just Like Friends

As I sat at home, I found myself engrossed in a book, trying to lose myself in its pages and forget about the world around me. My phone chimed, breaking the silence. I glanced at the screen to see a message from Scarlett saying that she wanted me to come over lunch as a thank you for my help on her case. It was an unexpected invitation, and part of me wanted to decline. I was tired, emotionally drained, and the idea of socializing felt like a daunting task. But another part of me, a sense of obligation and curiosity, urged me to go. After a brief internal debate, I replied with a simple "Sure, I'll be there," and received an enthusiastic response from Scarlett. She provided her address and a time, and I reluctantly put my book aside to get ready. --- As I parked my car in front of Scarlett's quaint, cozy home, I took a deep breath to steady myself. The sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the neighborhood. I reached for the doorbell and rang it, my heart