Maya released a cloud of smoke into the cool night air, resting against the balcony railing while her eyes scanned the vast, darkened sky. Her phone stayed firmly in her other hand as she flicked cigarette ash into the tray below.

Stress had always been a fierce opponent for her, one that refused to yield. She could neither step back nor push ahead without consequences.

She had tried reaching Arthur, but her partner had left his phone in the room. His simple task—to retrieve two bottles of beer from the kitchen,had clearly turned into something far longer. The delay made it obvious he had wandered into other matters.

The beer...