The Art of Subtlety and Scolding

"Ugh, fine," Amara muttered, looking over at the towel lying on the floor with disdain. "Just when I was having fun."

Elara couldn't help but laugh as Amara made a dramatic show of pulling the towel around her body. It was ridiculous and adorable, and despite the momentary interruption, Elara felt a giddy rush of excitement. Amara turned toward the bathroom, tossing her damp hair over her shoulder. "Just give me a sec to put some clothes on. Try not to scare the lunch guy with your, uh, enthusiasm," she said, shooting Elara a cheeky grin.

"Because I'm the one who's likely to scare him?" Elara shot back, her voice laced with mock indignation. "Have you looked in a mirror lately? The way you were wrapped up in that towel, you could've been a beach cover-up model. A very exposed beach cover-up model."

"True, but only you would find that terrifying," Amara laughed, disappearing into the bathroom as Elara made her way to the door.