Aria POV
For the first time in weeks, I felt hopeful.
Lucien's promise stayed with me long after we left the park.
"I'm not leaving you."
The words repeated in my mind while I worked, while I sketched designs late into the night, and even when I woke up the next morning.
Maybe things would be difficult.
Maybe his family would never accept me.
But as long as Lucien and I were together, we could face anything.
At least, that's what I believed.
---
Three days later, I arrived at Rosewood Bistro carrying a folder filled with design sketches.
My fashion school interview was approaching.
Every spare moment was spent preparing.
I was arranging the sketches behind the counter when my manager approached.
"Aria."
I looked up.
"Yes?"
"Someone dropped this off for you."
He handed me
