Future Darkly: Pandemic - Laura's Delivery

'If you desire to protect a confidential information, make sure you keep it concealed even from yourself.'-George Orwell Picture an intimate moment with Laura (Scarlit Scandal) relaxing on the sofa, gazing at her laptop on the table. Dressed in athletic wear, she lacks the energy to exercise while viewing a yoga tutorial from internet sensation Trudy (Serene Siren). The initial half a year of isolation was effortless. But life turned complicated when her partner, Michael, was revealed. A notification pings on Laura's phone, distracting her momentarily. Michael's message reads, 'Can you assist me?' She reads it, feeling hopeless. Laura stands before the mirror in the restroom after stripping off her workout outfit. Donned in full protection equipment, she takes a deep breath and gears up to aid her spouse. Emerging moments later from Michael's room with a tray in hand, Laura rests against the doorpost in repulsion at the untidy remnants and used utensils. Exhaling, she composes herself. Tidying up in the kitchen, Laura clears the dishes and removes her protective ensemble meticulously. Suddenly, the distant noise of an approaching delivery vehicle catches her attention. With a smile on her lips, she halts her chores upon hearing footsteps near. Hastening to the window, she glimpses the contactless delivery man (Jake Adams) arriving with her parcels. Despite his concealed visage, she finds herself captivated by him during the lockdown. As he nears, their eyes lock through the glass pane. Pausing, he sets down the packages and waves a greeting motion, his smile evident beneath the mask. Eagerly, the next day, Laura anticipates the delivery man's visit in her robe by the window, her intentions flirtatiously inclined after his charming smile lingers in her thoughts. However, jolted back to reality by texts from Michael requesting amenities, she tosses the phone aside in exasperation. Humbly setting down the packages on his return visit, he surreptitiously leaves a flower atop one, exciting her with unexpected gallantry. Moved by his chivalry, Laura steps outside impulsively when he emerges again, inadvertently flashing her undergarments. Startled, he compliments her beauty, igniting mutual admiration between them. Amidst their exchange, an invitation to a date ensues, albeit cautiously considering the periodic testing mandates. Gradually revealing their faces, they lock eyes and tune into each other's breath. Sharing a cozy moment, they ponder the opportunity of an expedited date night, bolstered by genuine attraction as they lower their masks. Ignited by a flood of endorphins, Laura experiences a thrilling kiss, rekindling excitement after a tedious spell. Interrupting the romantic fervor, the delivery man requests entry, prompting an internal conflict within Laura considering her spouse, Michael. Fumbling for composure, she hesitantly asks him to wait outside before closing the door gently, unsure of her true safety amidst conflicting emotions.