The morning air at the harbor felt damp as Leviana stepped down from the yacht. Her steps were light, but her heart carried a weight too heavy to hide. She gave Adrian a simple excuse:

“I just need some fresh air. I want to take a short walk,” she said with a faint smile.

Adrian nodded, unsuspecting. “Don’t go too far, Lev. I’ll come looking for you if you take too long.”

That smile almost broke her resolve, but the determination in her chest was stronger. The moment Adrian turned away, she slipped out of the crowd and called for the taxi she had secretly arranged.

Forgive me, Adrian. I...