The sun had long since dipped below the horizon, cloaking the city in a velvety blanket of night. Brielle sat at her desk, the soft glow of the lamp casting a warm radiance over the scattered documents and sketches. Her brow furrowed in concentration as she pored over the figures, her fingers drumming an absent rhythm on the polished surface.

A gentle knock at the door drew her attention, and she looked up to find Darius leaning against the doorframe, a fond smile playing on his lips.

"Still working, my love?" he murmured, his voice rich and melodic.

Brielle sighed, rubbing her temples in a futile attempt to stave off...