I don't remember the drive back, not really.
Just the rhythm of the road beneath us, the soft hum of the engine, and Adrien's hand resting on my lap as he rubs on it gently the whole way.
He didn't say much—and neither did I. But it wasn't uncomfortable. It was the kind of quiet that felt… earned.
When we reached the mansion, the night air clung to my skin like silk.
The lights inside were dimmed, golden and soft, casting warm shadows against the marble.
The puppy immediately began a chaotic exploration of the vast space, sniffing at the base of pillars and skittering across the polished floor, her tiny claws making a soft, rhythmic tap-tap-tap. It was a welcome burst of uncomplicated life in the hushed stillness of the house.
Thomas welcomed us and Adrien dismissed him.
He didn't guide me to the guest room. He didn't ask questions. He just opened the door to his bedroom like it was the most natural thing in the world, and I stepped in like it was mine, too.
