22:And.

The night had arrived. The stars were visible, like a slightly open door despite the city's light pollution. Everything was quiet, as quiet as a certain dark-haired man who was on his way to a brunette's house. Upon arrival, he rang the doorbell, and after a few minutes, the door opened.

"Good evening, Miss Clara," he said as the door swung open.

Clara smiled at him and replied, "Good evening, Tom. Come in, make yourself at home."

Tom nodded with a half-smile and entered, feeling the warmer air inside compared to outside. They made their way to the Star's living room, where Tom noticed that Clara was dressed somewhat casually yet still looking well put together.

"I suppose I arrived at a time when you might be heading out," he commented, and Clara turned to look at him, saying, "Let's just say it's nothing major, just part of my routine," she shrugged nonchalantly, and Tom nodded. "By the way, how was your day at university?" she asked after a while, while putting some papers into her