~Aria's POV
I hugged Karina before I even realized I was moving.
It was the kind of hug that came from relief, not politeness. Tight arms and a slow exhale. Her body was warm, solid, grounding. For a moment, I just stood there with my face pressed against her shoulder, breathing in the faint scent of herbs and honey that clung to her clothes.
She laughed softly and hugged me back.
"You're really doing this," she said, her voice warm. "I'm happy for you."
When we pulled apart, she tilted her head, already thinking ahead, already practical. That was Karina. Warm, yes. But steady too.
"I have cleaners," she said. "Good ones. They will wipe the place clean properly. Floors, windows, everything. You won't lift a finger."
My shoulders relaxed immediately. I had not realized how tense they were until that moment.
"Can they come today?" I asked. "If possible."
"Of course," she replied without hesitation.
