Katherine's heels tapped lightly against the polished hallway floor as she walked toward her apartment, the faint echo mingling with her humming. A small smile curved her lips, one she couldn't quite erase no matter how much she tried to act composed. She still felt the ghost of Felix's hand brushing against hers beneath the desk, the subtle warmth lingering like an ember on her skin. The teasing exchange they'd shared at the office earlier kept replaying in her mind, making her cheeks heat up all over again.
It was ridiculous, really. She was no teenager, yet her heart beat with the same giddy rhythm, her steps light and unguarded. A part of her wanted to scold herself for being so easily swayed by Felix's rare smiles, but the truth was undeniable, he had this way of reaching past her defenses, making her feel seen. Safe. Wanted.
But her cheerful rhythm faltered.
