Night settled quietly over the Romano mansion.
The corridors were peaceful, illuminated by the warm glow of crystal chandeliers. Most of the staff had already retired for the evening, leaving only silence behind.
Aria took a slow breath as she balanced the dinner tray in her hands.
Ever since the conversation about the island trip, she had deliberately avoided being alone with Rafael.
It wasn't because she disliked his company. It was because she liked it far too much.
Every smile he gave her...Every teasing remark...Every gentle glance...
Made the walls around her heart weaker.
She stopped outside his bedroom door.
"...Just serve dinner and leave."
That was the plan.
She knocked softly.
"Mr. Rafael... your dinner."
His calm voice came from inside.
"Come in."
She opened the door.
Rafael was standing beside the window, wearing a simple black shirt with the sleeves rolled to his forearms. The moonlight streaming through the glass made the room feel strangely peaceful.
