ARIA'S POV
The day began like all the others....too early, too exhausting, too full of reminders that Aria was trying to earn back the trust of a man who was determined to keep her at arm's length.
But at least the physical soreness from whatever had happened days ago had faded. Her body no longer ached with every movement, no longer reminded her with painful clarity that Damien had touched her in ways she couldn't remember.
Small mercies.
She arrived at the office at 7:45 AM, prepared his coffee with mechanical precision, and settled at her desk to review the day's schedule.
Board meeting at 10 AM. Lunch with potential investors at 12:30 PM. Conference calls at 2 PM and 4 PM. A full day, as always.
At 8 AM sharp, Damien arrived.
