The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the city. Mariah stood at the familiar meeting spot, her heart racing with anticipation and anxiety. Mason had asked her to meet him there, promising to take her to Adam. But there was a condition - they had to pretend to be just friends in front of Adam, a charade of normalcy to shield him from the complexities of their past.

As Mason approached, Mariah could see the concern etched in his eyes. He gently squeezed her hand, offering reassurance in his touch. "Remember, Mariah, we have to be careful. Adam's mind is fragile right now. We don't...