Knock! Knock!
Ethan rapped on the door, the sound reverberating through the silence. Almost instantaneously, the door swung open, revealing Velarie's beaming face as she eagerly peered out. "Ethan!" she exclaimed, a wide smile stretching across her lips. "What kept you so occupied?"
Caught off guard by Velarie's swift emergence, Ethan's gaze locked with hers. He felt a surge of warmth as her eyes sparkled with anticipation. "Apologies," he stammered, momentarily taken aback. "I had to fulfill your request and deliver the box to Anna."
"Ah, yes, I recall," Velarie nodded knowingly, her smile unwavering. "Please, do come inside."
With a firm grip, Velarie clasped Ethan's hand, guiding him across the threshold before the door could shut behind him.
The inviting ambiance of her abode enveloped him, an enchanting blend of colors and scents, as Velarie's infectious enthusiasm permeated the air.