"

As they sat down to eat, Nora felt a sense of comfort and belonging. She was surrounded by friends, and they were all having a great time.

The pizza was delicious, and the conversation was easy and relaxed. Nora found herself laughing and joking with Ethan's friends, feeling like she had known them for years.

As they finished up and started to clear the table, Ethan's mom came over and gave Nora a warm smile. "It's so great to finally meet you, Nora," she said. "Ethan has told me so much about you."

Nora felt a blush rise to her cheeks as she smiled back at Ethan's mom. "It's great to meet you too," she said.

As they finished up the dishes and headed back to the living room, Ethan suggested they watch a movie. "How about a horror movie?" he said, grinning mischievously.

Nora raised an eyebrow, feeling a sense of trepidation. "A horror movie?" she repeated.

Ethan nodded, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Yeah, it'll be fun," he said.

Nora hesitated for a moment, but then shrugged. Why not? It was just a movie, and she was with friends.

As they settled in to watch the movie, Nora felt a sense of excitement. She loved horror movies, and she was curious to see how this one would play out.

As the movie started, Nora found herself getting more and more into it. She was screaming and laughing along with the others, feeling like she was a part of something special.

As the credits rolled, Nora turned to Ethan with a grin. "That was so much fun," she said.

Ethan smiled back at her, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "I told you it would be," he said.

As they all started to chat and laugh, Nora felt a sense of belonging. She was part of a group, a group of friends who liked to have fun and enjoy each other's company.

And as she looked over at Ethan, she felt a sense of gratitude. He had brought her into this group, and she was so glad that he had.

As the night wore on, Nora found herself feeling more and more at ease. She was having the time of her life, and she didn't want the night to end.

But eventually, it was time to say goodbye. Ethan walked Nora out to the car, his arm slung casually over her shoulder.

"Thanks for coming over tonight," he said, smiling down at her.

Nora smiled back up at him, feeling a sense of happiness. "Thanks for inviting me," she said.

As they stood there, looking at each other, Nora felt a sense of connection. She knew that she had found a true friend in Ethan, and she was excited to see what the future held for them.