Chapter 5

"So, how are things with you? What's new?" Nicola grinned at me, his eyes twinkling mischievously.

I was taken aback. "What makes you ask?"

"I can sense it," Nicola said, jokingly counting on his fingers and speaking with mock seriousness. Then he erupted in laughter. "You arrived without any bags, and you checked in at midnight.

It's peak season, so all the hotels are packed. It seems like you're either fleeing a wedding, had a disagreement, or perhaps lost your job."

I found myself at a loss for words.

Well, while it wasn't entirely accurate, it was close enough.

Noticing my stunned expression, Nicola, who had been teasing, suddenly turned solemn. "I apologize if I've touched a nerve. I was only kidding."

"It's okay," I replied, not really upset by it, as it was all true. "I'm just amazed at how close you were."