The sun rose brightly into Javier’s room, casting a warm glow as Natalie stirred on the bed, still half-asleep. She let out a soft yawn, her eyes fluttering open as she took in her surroundings.

The rumble of her stomach jolted her awake, reminding her that she was not in her own home but in Javier’s. She looked around the room, taking in the white decor and neatly arranged furniture, realizing that white must be his favorite color.

A knock on the door interrupted her thoughts, announcing that breakfast was ready. “I’ll be down in a minute,” she called out, running a hand through her hair. As the footsteps faded...