FEW MINUTES LATER

Vanessa grabbed her bag and cast one last glance at Riccardo. His face was unreadable, his dark eyes steady as he stood by the doorway.

"I'm leaving," she said, adjusting her bag on her shoulder.

"I’ll come back to pick Emily later," she added firmly.

"Sure," Riccardo replied, his voice calm and steady. "Stay safe."

Vanessa gave a small nod, muttered, “I will,” and headed out the door.

Outside, the cool evening air greeted her. Diego stood near the car, his posture straight as ever. The moment he saw her, he moved quickly to open the car door.

"Thank you," she said, stepping inside. The faint scent...