Outside, by the rear wing of the mansion, Zac and Mia walked along the lawn. The cool night air cut through the quietness, and the sound of a water fountain flowed beside them. Mia took a deep breath, letting the crisp air calm her nerves.
“You knew exactly what I needed,” she murmured, her voice soft, almost vulnerable. She tilted her head with a genuine smile. “Thank you, Zac.”
Zac nodded, giving her a quiet smile in return. “You’re welcome.”
“First of all, I’m so, so sorry about my dad,” Mia admitted, her words slipping out with quiet frustration. “I had no idea he’d—” She stopped, her voice shaking as unshed tears threatened to break through.
Zac observed her closely, sensing the strain in her posture. He didn’t waste any time before opening his arms wide. “Come here, you.”
Mia ti
