Ever since their last experiment broke new ground, Claire had thrown herself into the lab around the clock, sometimes skipping meals in her relentless focus.
The higher-ups had laid down the law, no matter how hard they pushed, the team couldn't neglect their health. Every evening, Adrian personally made sure Claire ate and took her mandatory break outside the lab.
A month had slipped by since her arrival. The mountain chill bit through her thin layers, leaving her fingers numb.
Ever attentive, Adrian had fashioned a hand warmer just for her. As late autumn winds rustled the trees, a single leaf fluttered down to crown her head.
He reached out to brush it away, eyes fixed on her. Instinctively, Claire stepped back.
"Just grabbing that for you," Adrian murmured, voice soft as honey, ey
