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Chapter 1

John's anticipation had been sky-high as he touched down in Miami. After months of planning, he finally arrived to surprise his girlfriend, Jessica, with a week of sun, fun, and romance. But as he waited at the luggage carousel, his excitement began to fray. His suitcase never appeared.

His heart sank as he navigated through the airport's lost luggage counter. The staff's assurances did little to comfort him. Dragging his carry-on, he headed to Jessica's apartment, trying to push aside his frustration.

Jessica greeted him with a radiant smile as she opened the door. "John! You're here!" Her arms wrapped around him in a warm embrace. The comfort of her hug momentarily soothed his irritation.

"Hey, Jess," John said, managing a smile. "I'm so excited to see you. But, uh, there's a small issue. My luggage didn't make it."

"Oh no, that's awful! Don't worry, we'll figure it out," Jessica replied, her concern quickly morphing into a bright smile as she led him inside.

They spent the next hour catching up, laughing, and sharing stories. But just as John was beginning to forget his luggage woes, Jessica's phone rang. She glanced at the screen, and her face fell.

"I'm so sorry, John," she said, her voice tight with urgency. "That's my agency. I've just been offered a major job in Italy. I have to leave immediately."

John's heart sank. "Italy? But-"

Jessica cut him off, her eyes softening with regret. "I know, this is so last minute. I wanted to make this time special for us. But I have to go. My friend Emma will be coming over to help you out. She's great and will take good care of you."

John nodded, trying to mask his disappointment. "Okay, I understand. Go do your thing. I'll see Emma when she gets here."

Jessica pulled him into another embrace. "I'm really sorry, John. I'll call you as soon as I can. I'll miss you."

"Me too," he said, his voice muffled against her shoulder.

With a quick goodbye, Jessica hurried out the door, leaving John alone in the apartment. He sighed deeply, feeling the weight of the situation. The promise of a fun vacation now seemed distant, replaced by the uncertainty of waiting for Emma.

When Emma arrived at Jessica's apartment, she was momentarily taken aback when John opened the door. Their striking resemblance was immediately noticeable; they shared similar physical traits, including eye color and nose shape.

"Hi, you must be Emma," John said with a tired smile.

"That's me," Emma replied, her eyes lingering on John's features. "And you must be John."

"Yep, that's right," John confirmed. "I'm glad you're here."

Emma stepped inside, looking around. "I was thinking I could help you unpack. Where's your luggage?"

John's expression turned frustrated. "That's the problem-my luggage didn't make it. I'm left with only the clothes I had in my carry-on."

Emma's concern was evident. "Oh no. Well, let's see what we can do. I can wash the clothes you do have overnight, but that means you won't have anything to wear while you sleep."

John chuckled awkwardly. "Great. So, I'll be going to bed without clothes. Not exactly the way I envisioned this trip."

Emma smiled, trying to lighten the mood. "It's just one night. We'll get your clothes sorted out and grab some essentials tomorrow. For now, let's get you comfortable."

"Thanks, Emma," John said, appreciating her help. "I guess I'll just have to make the best of it."

Emma busied herself in the kitchen, preparing a simple meal of pasta and salad. As she worked, the rich aroma of garlic and herbs filled the air, mingling with the faint hint of frustration Marc had brought with him.