Adrian woke up earlier than usual that morning, around six. The soft rays of sunlight crept through the curtains, painting the room in a warm golden hue. He rubbed his eyes, stretched his arms, and quietly slipped out of bed. Olivea was still sleeping soundly, her bare body tangled beneath the sheets, her breathing slow and steady. For a moment, Adrian stood still, his gaze softening.
After a quick shower, he headed to the kitchen and prepared some simple breakfast—freshly toasted bread with butter and a warm cup of milk. Returning to the bedroom, he leaned down and kissed Olivea's forehead gently.
"Olivea, darling," he whispered at her ear, his voice deep yet tender. "Wake up. Breakfast is ready, and after that, we can go grocery shopping together."
Olivea stirred, her eyelids fluttering open lazily. "Mmm… already?" she murmured sleepily, stretching her arms.
"Yes, come now. Eat something, then get ready," Adrian replied softly, covering her with a towel before she slipped away to the bathroom.
Nearly an hour later, Olivea reappeared, freshly showered and dressed beautifully. She had chosen a soft beige blouse tucked neatly into a skirt, her hair flowing gracefully. Adrian caught his breath.
She looks breathtaking… he thought silently, unable to tear his eyes away.
"Is something wrong?" Olivea asked, tilting her head slightly, puzzled by his intense gaze.
"N-no, nothing," Adrian replied quickly with a small laugh. "Come, sit for a while. I made some bread for you."
She smiled faintly and joined him at the table. After finishing breakfast, they prepared to leave.
On the drive to the grocery store, Olivea kept teasing him playfully, her laughter filling the car. Adrian only chuckled, shaking his head. "You'd better be careful, Olivea. Keep testing me like this, and we'll see what happens tonight."
Olivea giggled, raising her brows. "Is that a threat, Mr. Cole?"
"A promise," Adrian replied with a smirk, his eyes glinting.
When they arrived at the grocery store, Olivea casually reached for his hand. Her fingers were soft and warm, and Adrian felt a strange warmth rush through him. For nearly half an hour, they wandered the aisles, selecting fresh vegetables, fruit, and other necessities.
Suddenly, a voice called from behind.
"Adrian? Adrian Cole? Oh my God, long time no see!"
Adrian froze. He turned and saw a woman approaching—a short-haired brunette, stylish and confident. It was Sarah, an old acquaintance from college.
"S-Sarah…" Adrian greeted awkwardly. "It's… been a while."
Olivea frowned slightly, glancing at the stranger. Who is this woman with the sharp black hair?
Sarah's eyes shifted toward Olivea, her smile widening. "And who might this be? Your girlfriend?"
Adrian straightened his posture. "This is my wife. Olivea."
Sarah's smile faltered. "W-wife? Oh… well, congratulations."
Olivea smirked, extending her hand politely. "Nice to meet you."
"Likewise," Sarah replied, though her tone lacked warmth. She forced a laugh. "Anyway, I'll see you at the company soon. Goodbye, Adrian."
As Sarah walked away, Olivea narrowed her eyes. Company? The word lingered in her mind, but she chose not to ask.
Later, after unpacking the groceries at home, Adrian approached her. "Olivea, I have some work at the company this evening. Would you like to come with me, see how things run?"
Olivea sighed. "Maybe another time. I'm exhausted from walking around. You go ahead."
Adrian caressed her cheek gently before kissing her forehead. "Very well. Rest, my love. I'll return before nightfall."
She watched him leave, a strange unease rising within her. "Hmm… that woman. Sarah. Why do I feel unsettled? No, stop it, Olivea. Don't overthink," she muttered to herself.
To distract her thoughts, she checked her phone. A missed call from Zoe flashed on the screen. Olivea quickly returned the call.
"Olivea!" Zoe's voice rang with excitement. "Finally! Girl, it feels like forever since we went out to party!"
Olivea laughed. "It's only been a week, Zoe. You're being dramatic."
"Well, Emma and I are planning to go to New York! Once we're back, let's hit the clubs. I miss our wild nights!"
Olivea's eyes widened. "New York? Really? Fine, keep me updated. I'll be waiting."
Suddenly, a loud crash echoed through the villa.
"Olivea, I'll call you back. Something came up," Zoe's voice said hastily before the line disconnected.
Olivea froze, her heart pounding. Slowly, she turned toward the window.
"What was that noise…?" she whispered, her voice trembling.
The sound of footsteps followed—slow, deliberate, echoing across the wooden floor of the villa. Fear clenched her chest. She ran to the bedroom, slammed the door shut, and locked it.
Her hands shook as she fumbled with her phone. "Oh no… I don't even have Adrian's number!" she whispered frantically.
Glass shattered somewhere downstairs. The sound was sharp, violent.
Olivea's breath quickened. "God… someone's here."
Without thinking, she slipped into the closet, crouching low, her hands covering her mouth to silence her rapid breathing. The creaking of the floorboards drew closer, each step heavier, echoing in the silence of the villa.
Her body trembled as she prayed for Adrian to return soon.