The Romano Mansion had fallen unusually quiet.
Rain tapped softly against the tall windows, filling the silence that hung between two people who loved each other more than life itself.
Rafael stood in his study, staring blankly at the documents spread across his desk.
He hadn't read a single word.
His mind replayed the same scenes over and over again.Aria whispering with Noah.
Their conversations stopping whenever he entered.Her smiling while her eyes carried sadness.
And finally...His own question.
"Are you planning to leave me?"
Her answer had sounded calm.But her eyes... had almost broken.
He pushed the papers aside.
"I can't do this anymore..."
Without another thought, he walked out of the study.
Aria was arranging fresh flowers in the sunroom.
She carefully placed white lilies into a crystal vase.
Her hands were steady.Only because she forced them to be.
She sensed someone behind her.
"You've been avoiding me."
Rafael's voice was calm.
Too calm.
