Ethan is already at the shop when I arrive.
I see him before he sees me. Standing too still by the entrance, phone in his hand like it’s offended him. Jaw tight. Shoulders pulled back. The version of him that looks composed to strangers but feels… brittle if you know where to press.
I know where to press.
Luca’s car pulls up smoothly. Too smoothly. Like the universe is being petty on my behalf.
“Here you go,” Luca says, leaning across the wheel. “Safe and sound.”
“Thank you,” I say, genuinely. I smile. I don’t rush. I don’t look back immediately.
Mara is already halfway out, stretching, oblivious. “Text me later,” she says.
“I will.”
Luca nods once, polite, professional. “See you around, Solene.”
I turn then.
That’s when Ethan looks up.
Our eyes meet.
And something in him… shif
