conversation in the

ot heavier. Ju

ng fragile had settled there overnight. The words Adrian had s

us yet, but for the first time,

e. He looked up immediately, as if he had been waiting.

aid finally, his voi

rning,"

orced distance. Just a quiet u

poured coffee. "A charity luncheon. I

t skipp

you," he added quickly. "I

said, surpris

dying my face.

"Yes. I think...

xpression-relief, perhaps, or gratitude. "A

eth

rd lin

-

out of place, standing in the middle of a world so polished and unfamiliar. But Adrian neve

ring back. The dress was elegant but simple, soft blue that matched the calm I w

," Adrian said quie

the compliment, but by t

ou," I w

sitating slightly, giv

ook

-

rics and confident smiles. Conversations flowed easily, laughter

tely-the attentio

oser. "Stay with

ng his arm just

began almost

ing with a wide grin. "You didn't t

e. "I didn't feel the need to announce

my w

en

me-steady, respectful

meet you," the

behind. Never walked ahead. Never spoke over me. When someone addressed him, he

tly and said, "You're very quiet,

an spoke. "She doesn't need

silent for h

wkwardly. "Of cour

d politely. "But I w

ea

rapped arou

-

for air. The city stretched before us,

that well,"

," I admitted wi

dn't sh

's because yo

gaze thoughtful. "That's what

tne

ent warmth

without thinking, Adrian reached out, gently tucking a strand be

he said. "I d

y," I sai

yes l

eemed

t two people standing at the edge o

-

the car again-but it was differe

u," I sai

r w

or... standin

then back to the road. "

f his answer mad

-

n. Not the grandeur. Not the attention. But the way Adrian had

e, I realized som

ding to be my hu

hoosing

ization chang