ARIA'S POV
Dinner with Marc had been exactly what Aria needed. Easy conversation, familiar jokes, the comfortable rhythm of friendship that had weathered years and distance.
They'd just finished eating and were settling the bill when Marc's phone buzzed.
"Looks like it's getting late," he said, glancing at the time. "I should probably get you home before your possessive boyfriend sends out a search party."
Aria laughed. "He's not that bad."
"He's protective. There's a difference."
"If you say so." Marc stood and offered her his hand. "Come on. My car's around the corner."
They stepped out of the restaurant into the cool evening air, and Marc pulled her into one more hug.
"It really was good to see you, Ri. I've missed having my best friend around."
"I've missed you too, Marc. Next month is going to be amazing, working together again."
They pulled apart, still smiling...and that's when Aria saw the familiar black car parked not far from the restaurant entrance.
