chapter 7

The rain fell in thick sheets against the city skyline, casting a rhythmic hum over Adam's penthouse. Winne sat curled in the corner of his vast living room, knees tucked to her chest, as she watched the city lights flicker beyond the glass. Her mind swam with memories she had fought for years to bury.

Adam's presence filled the space behind her, steady and unyielding. "You're quiet tonight," he observed, his voice a deep, soothing cadence that always made her pulse quicken.

Winne turned her head slightly but didn't meet his eyes. How could she? The weight of her secret sat heavy on her chest. She had built a life of independence, refusing to let anyone close enough to truly see her. But Adam had unraveled her defenses one by one.

"I have something to tell you," she whispered.

Adam moved toward her, kneeling in front of her, his dark eyes searching hers. "Tell me."

Winne drew a shaky breath. "I have twins. A boy and a girl. They're five."

Silence stretched between them, thick and suffocating.

"Why didn't you tell me sooner?" Adam's voice was calm, but his expression was unreadable.

"I was afraid," she admitted. "Afraid of how you'd react. Afraid of what it might mean for us."

Adam exhaled, then reached for her hands, wrapping them in his own. "Winne, you and I have been building something real. Did you think this would change how I feel about you?"

Tears stung the backs of her eyes. "I don't know. I just—I don't let people in, Adam."

His thumb brushed over her knuckles. "I know. But you let me in. And I'm not going anywhere."