Johny’s penthouse was steeped in silence, the kind that only came in the late hours when everyone had surrendered to sleep.

Ariel had been no exception.

Curled beneath the soft duvet, exhaustion had finally claimed her. The day had been long, draining, filled with thoughts she wished she could escape.

But just as sleep had fully settled over her, a sudden noise shattered the quiet.

A sharp voice. A crash. Muffled weak scolding. Her brows furrowed, without opening her eyes.

Another sound followed—closer this time. Slurred words mixing with the unmistakable shuffle of unsteady footsteps.

Then she opened her eyes in curiosity. She sat up, her heart picking up pace....