Richard

I guess I didn’t do too bad. Maya’s had a permanent grin plastered across her face since she found out about the book signing. My only mistake was not swearing Juliana to secrecy about the reason behind the event.

I don’t want Maya to look too much into things. But part of me wonders if it’s too late for that based on the way she smiles at me like I make her genuinely happy.

My driver drops us off back at the penthouse.

This elevator ride is different from the last, with Maya cracking open her books like she wants to double-check for any water damage after our tumble. She’s done it twice already, but I don’t fault her for being protective over her new prized possessions.

We stroll into the apartment, and Maya scurries away to put her books back in her luggage and take a shower. I…