Joana agreed to spend the night with Elijah. Despite lingering feelings of unease from their previous conversation, she couldn't ignore the longing for his presence, especially after his courageous act of saving Michaela and herself from the paparazzi.
The following morning, Joana was roused by the sound of the shower tapering off. Elijah was already up and about, emerging from the bathroom clad in his robe, toothbrush in hand.
"Time to get up," he mumbled through a mouthful of toothpaste, rummaging through his dresser. "We're departing in an hour. You should start packing."
Sitting up, Joana furrowed her brow. It was early, and while she was aware of their planned trip to the mountain estate that day, the early departure caught her off guard. Nevertheless, she hastened to her room, swi
