Charmaine POV
The warm water and soap suds felt soothing on my skin as I scrubbed the last of the pots and pans. But my mind was elsewhere, consumed by thoughts of Luca. His bright smile, his kind eyes, his gentle touch - everything about him seemed to be invading my mind. I couldn't shake the feeling that he was somehow connected to the strange encounter with Marcus earlier. But I pushed that thought aside, focusing instead on the warmth that spread through my chest whenever I thought of Luca.
I rinsed the last of the dishes and dried my hands, my mind still wandering back to Luca. I thought about the way he had taken care of me earlier, bringing me tea and toast, and listening to me with such kindness. It was a small act of kindness, but it had touched my heart in a way that I couldn't
