As the black SUV reached Aria's apartment, the sun was dropping behind the horizon. She stopped quickly before entering, her heart thundering even though the tinted windows and plush leather seats seemed comforting. The driver acknowledged her with a nod and merged into traffic, heading for the coastline.
Killian’s message had been brief - just a note saying he’d send a ride for her instead. Aria was uncertain about what lay ahead, yet she felt it was important to listen to his perspective. Maybe even say some things of her own.
Her excitement and anxiety surged within her as the automobile approached the house. The beach house became visible precisely as the sunlight left, its elegant glass facade gently lit by the warm glow leaking from the windows. Behind, the ocean mumbled consistent
