Lips of connection

As Rose approached the rear of the aircraft, she saw Liam and Rachel engaged in a deep conversation. Their voices were hushed, and they seemed completely absorbed in each other's presence. A knot tightened in Rose's stomach as she observed their interaction from a distance.

Summoning her courage, Rose took a deep breath and walked up to them. "Hey, Liam," she said, her voice tinged with a mix of uncertainty and determination.

Liam's head turned towards her, surprise evident in his eyes. "Rose, hey! What's up?" he replied, a smile playing at the corner of his lips. Rose shifted her gaze towards Rachel, who stood silently beside Liam. "I suppose you are, Rachel?" she acknowledged, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her.

Rachel nodded politely, her eyes avoiding direct contact with Rose's. "Hi, Rose," she said softly, her tone lacking any hint of hostility.

Rose's jealousy began to ebb away, replaced by a sense of self-assurance. She realized that Rachel's beauty and presence di