Emily’s POV
Marco consumed my thoughts like wildfire, his presence invading every corner of my mind without so much as asking permission. It was as if he had taken residence there, stubbornly and beautifully refusing to be ignored. But this time, I welcomed it. I was ready to embrace love again, to let my heart open after so long shutting itself away. The very thought of it electrified me, sending warmth rushing through my veins. Love was scary, yes, but thrilling. Something about Marco made me want to believe in it all over again.
“I hope he calls tomorrow,” I murmured softly as I settled beneath my blankets, my eyelids fluttering shut with a flutter of anticipation.
Morning arrived with an unfamiliar, almost surreal sound, soft footsteps and faint voices, stirring me from my sleep. My
