CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

Mia sighed, running a hand through her hair as she stepped into her bedroom. As much as she wanted to linger in the quiet morning with Marco, today was still a workday. Reality was waiting.

She pulled open her wardrobe, grabbing a fresh outfit. Behind her, she could hear Marco moving around the living room.

By the time she emerged, dressed in a fitted blouse and tailored pants, he was standing by the window, phone pressed to his ear. His voice was low and steady as he spoke.

“Come back now,” he told the driver. A brief pause. Then, “Yeah, the rain’s lighter. Just be careful.”

Mia glanced outside. The heavy storm had passed, leaving behind a soft drizzle. The streets glistened under the muted morning light, damp but no longer flooded.

Marco ended the call and turned toward her, his sharp gaze raking over her appearance. Something flickered in his eyes, but he didn’t comment.

“You’re heading to work,” he stated rather than asked.