The penthouse was quiet, but the tension in the air was almost tangible. The storm from the previous night had faded, leaving the city slick and glowing under the early morning sun. Amelia sat on the edge of the sofa, hands clasped tightly in her lap, mind racing.
Ethan stood across from her, leaning against the arm of a chair, his gaze calm yet intense. For a moment, neither spoke. Words felt inadequate, and yet, both knew what was coming was inevitable.
“Amelia,” Ethan began, his voice low, careful. “There’s something I need you to understand. Something I haven’t been able to tell you… until now.”
Amelia’s chest tightened, a mix of apprehension and anticipation coiling in her stomach. “I’m listening.”
He ran a hand through his hair, a gesture of frustration he rarely allowed anyone t
