Soft rain taps against the window.

LAUREN stands in the center of the room, phone in hand, staring at Wayne’s last message.

A sharp knock cuts through the quiet. She freezes, then slowly opens the door.

DAN steps inside without waiting for an invitation. His eyes are cold.

Pack a bag. You’re coming with me tonight.

No. I’m not going anywhere with you, Dan.

Don’t make this harder than it has to be. We still have unfinished business.

Everything between us finished the moment I realized who I really want.

And who is that supposed to be?

Wayne. I’m choosing him. Fully. Completely.

Dan closes the door behind him and takes a step closer. Lauren does not back away.

You don’t mean that. You’re confused. Wayne is a distraction.

He’s not a distraction. He’s the first person who ever made me feel safe being myself.

Safe? You think he can protect you the way I can?

Lauren’s voice stays steady.

I don’t need protection from you, Dan. I need distance.

So you’re throwing everything away for him?

I’m not throwing anything away. I’m finally choosing what feels right.

Dan’s jaw tightens. He starts pacing across the room.

You barely know him. I’ve known you for years.

Time doesn’t equal understanding. Wayne sees me. You only ever saw what you wanted.

I’m giving you one last chance to change your mind.

I already did. And I’m not changing it again.

Silence fills the space between them.

What if I refuse to walk away?

Then you’ll have to accept that my decision doesn’t require your permission.

Lauren moves toward the front door and places her hand on the handle.

Don’t do this. Come with me. We can still fix everything.

There’s nothing left to fix. I want to be with Wayne.

And if you walk out that door… I won’t just let this go.

Lauren turns and looks him straight in the eyes.

Threats won’t change how I feel. Leave my house, Dan.

You’re making a mistake you’ll regret.

Lauren picks up her phone again. Wayne’s name glows on the screen. She takes a deep breath.

Last chance. Choose wisely.

I already chose. And it’s not you.

You’re really going to throw me away for him?

Lauren walks past him and opens the door wide.

I’m not throwing you away. I’m finally walking toward something real.

You’ll come crawling back.

No. I won’t.

Rain falls harder now. Dan steps out onto the porch. Lauren remains in the doorway.

She looks down at her phone one more time, then locks the screen and puts it away.

Goodbye, Dan.

She closes the door firmly. The lock clicks into place.

Outside, Dan stands in the rain for a long moment before walking to his car.

Wayne sits at his desk, phone in hand, staring at the unanswered messages.

Lauren… please pick up.

He calls again. This time the line connects.

Where are you? Are you okay?

He stands, already reaching for his jacket, relief mixing with urgency.

Lauren leans against the closed door, heart still racing. Her phone lights up with Wayne’s name.

I’m here. I’m safe. And I chose you.

A soft smile forms on her face as she listens to his voice.

Come over. I need to see you.

Outside, Dan’s car engine starts and slowly fades into the rain.

Inside, Lauren waits for the only person she wants to open the door for.

The night is only beginning.