As soon as they started driving, silence fell between them. It was exactly as she expected—quiet and distant. Lara stared out the window, watching the city pass by as the minutes stretched on. The only sounds filling the car were the hum of the engine and the occasional honk from other vehicles. She had always been used to Lucas’s cold demeanor, but there were times when the silence between them felt suffocating. It took nearly half an hour to reach the café due to traffic. The moment Lucas parked, Lara unbuckled her seatbelt and opened the door. She hesitated briefly before bending down slightly to look at him. “Thanks for the ride. Drive safe,” she said softly and without waiting Lucas’ response—not that she expected him to—she shut the door close. Lara straightened her back, took a

