CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY - Shattered Peace on the Street

As their laughter subsided, they found themselves face to face, breathing heavily. The air between them seemed to crackle with electricity. For a moment, neither moved, caught in each other's gaze. Then Leon cleared his throat, sitting up. "So, uh, want to try a two-player game?" Nia nodded, her heart still racing. "Sure, sounds fun." They spent another hour exploring different VR worlds together, from solving puzzles in a fantastical landscape to fending off a zombie horde. Despite her initial skepticism, Nia found herself thoroughly enjoying the experience. As they finally put away the VR equipment, Leon glanced at his watch. "Wow, time really flew by. What do you say we go out for lunch? There's this new place I've been wanting to try." Nia hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "You know what? That sounds great. I could use a change of scenery." "Perfect," Leon said, his face lighting up. "Why don't we get dressed up a bit? Make an occasion of it." They parted ways to get read