Emma’s POV

The city awoke with a soft, bruised light, painting the vast glass walls of the penthouse in hues of tender rose and muted gold. But for me, the true dawn began in the kitchen, with the low hum of the espresso machine and the quiet presence of Adrian. Our first date had been a revelation, a soft unfolding of fears and hopes, sealed by a kiss that tasted of promise. Now, weeks later, the promise was slowly, tentatively, blooming into a cherished ritual.