As the afternoon finally cooled off, casting long amber shadows across the concrete, the heavy weight of the workday started to lift. Adam was the first back at the loft, dropping his briefcase by the door and loosening his tie with a loud sigh. The apartment was quiet, bathed in golden light. He headed straight to the kitchen, putting together a quick spread of artisan bread, cold cuts, and a bottle of wine to make up for his morning pancake failure. A moment later, the front door clicked open. Paris walked in, kicking off her heels with an exhausted groan that melted into a smile as she smelled the food. "Is that actual food I smell, or did you order takeout out of pure survival instinct?" she called out, tossing her bag on the bench. Adam appeared with two wine glasses in hand, walking over to press a soft kiss to the top of her head. "A meticulously curated charcuterie board," he teased, guiding her toward the balcony as the evening breeze rolled in. "And zero smoke alarms were harmed." They stepped out onto the narrow iron balcony, watching the city lights flicker on below. Paris leaned her weight against his side, her shoulder resting comfortably against his chest as he wrapped an arm around her, keeping her warm against the breeze. The noise of the city faded into a distant hum, leaving just the two of them.

Golden reunion