The silence stretched between them, but it wasn’t the kind that unsettled or demanded to be filled. It was different here—softer, easier. Martina stood by the large windows, looking out at the sprawling landscape. Rolling hills and clusters of trees stretched as far as the eye could see, untouched by the weight of their world.
She hadn’t realized how much she needed this.
Elias watched her from where he stood near the fireplace, his gaze unreadable but intent. “You’re thinking again.”
Martina smirked, not turning around. “Dangerous, right?”
Elias stepped closer, his presence warm behind her. “Very.”
She exhaled, resting her hands on the cool glass. “It’s… quiet here.”
Elias’s hands found her waist, his touch steady, grounding. “That’s the point.”
Martina tilted her head slightly, lo
