It was a Tuesday—seven days since Clara had been discharged from the hospital. Though her body had largely recovered, full healing would take another week.
James no longer kept the disciplined schedule he'd maintained during her hospitalization. Late nights at the office were now the norm, and he often returned home well past midnight.
Even when he did come back, he'd lose himself in his study until the small hours. By the time he finally slipped into bed, Clara would already be deep asleep. Then, without a word, he'd wrap his arms around her from behind and fall asleep just like that—holding her close.
This time, two full days had passed without her seeing him at all.
It was now 2 a.m.
Clara had gone to bed early, but the sprawling villa felt even emptier at night when she was all al
