She had spent a long time getting ready, carefully applying every stroke. Her eyeliner was as precise as fate itself, the mascara without clumps, and her lips were painted the perfect shade — a tender promise. Every minute in front of the mirror was an investment in this moment.

He came over, eyes sparkling, said, “You’re magical,” and kissed her. Passionately, like in those movies where the world freezes and only that moment exists. But then… she noticed the traces: his face smudged with her lipstick, eyelashes stuck to his cheek, and it felt like she had just stepped out of a battle, not a romantic scene.

He smiled and said, “You look dangerous. And I like that.” And suddenly she wondered — maybe next time, no makeup? Or maybe less restraint and fewer masks? Because true beauty lies in simplicity and honesty, not layers of cosmetics.

That kiss became a lesson for her — sometimes what’s meant to be perfect gains a special charm in its imperfections.