Julian's apartment felt different when I walked in alone. Quieter. Emptier. Like the space itself knew something had shifted and wasn't sure how to adjust. I dropped my bag by the door and walked straight to the bedroom, peeling off my clothes and stepping into the shower. The hot water hit my skin and I just stood there, letting it run over me while my mind spun in circles. Paris. Vincent wanted to take me to Paris for a month. And I was actually considering it. Ughhh. What the hell was wrong with me? I pressed my forehead against the cool tile and tried to think logically. To weigh the options like Silas had taught me. Pros and cons. Risks and benefits. Strategic thinking instead of emotional reaction. But my brain refused to cooperate. All I could think about was Vincent's calm voice

