HERMIONE It's frustrating how quickly time passes. The three days leading up to my European trip vanished in a blur, leaving Aiden and me with little time to prepare for our separation. It felt as though time itself was racing against me. There were moments when it dragged on, frustratingly slow, and I wished the past three days could have been that way too. Aiden's driver takes us to the airport, where my plane awaits. I had said my goodbyes over the past few days to Dad, Dr. May, and a few close friends. Aiden and I hold hands throughout the entire ride, exchanging tender touches and basking in the afterglow of our lovemaking earlier this morning. It was a parting gift to hold onto until our next meeting, and it was exhilarating. My body still tingles with warmth from Aiden's touch.

