Two years ago.
Rain tapped lightly against the café window as Sophia sat, spine straight, lips pressed in a line. Her father had arranged the meeting, but it felt more like a business negotiation than a date.
Sebastian stirred his coffee. "You've always been serious, even in college," he said. "But I like that. You're everything I need."
She didn't smile.
He leaned forward. "Your father thinks we're good for each other. You, a powerful CEO. Me, a political heir. We'd rule the city."
Sophia's eyes flicked away. "Sebastian… I never said yes."
"But you never said no." He smirked, sliding a velvet ring box across the table. "Everyone already assumes we're engaged."
Sophia stared at it. Her chest felt tight, her hands cold. "Just because I'm silent doesn't mean I agree."
"You're just afraid to open your heart again. You'll grow into this."
She stood up. "No. I won't."
And she walked away.
Present Day
Adrian found her standing alone by the window in Ethan's room, staring out at the night sky.
"Cold coffee again?" he asked gently, holding a fresh mug.
She accepted it. "I wasn't thinking."
He didn't ask questions. He never pushed.
But when his hand brushed hers, and their fingers stayed there a second longer, she didn't pull away.