# Chapter Seventy-Seven
Rafael's POV
I woke up to an empty bed and cold morning light filtering through the curtains. Maliya had slept in her room last night. After the confrontation with her mother, after everything I'd told her, she'd needed space.
I couldn't blame her.
I got up and went through my morning routine mechanically. Shower, shave, dress. Each action felt heavy, weighted down by the knowledge that I'd broken something between us yesterday.
When I came downstairs, Mrs. Santos was in the kitchen preparing breakfast. She looked up when I entered, her expression concerned.
"Good morning, Mr. Rafael." Her voice was gentle. "I made your coffee just how you like it."
"Thank you." I took the cup she offered, grateful for the warmth in my hands if nothing else.
Mrs. Santos stu
