Sofia had just slipped back inside the ballroom when she felt it—
That quiet shift in the air. Like gravity tilting. Like someone was looking at her before she even saw him.
Adam.
He stood near the head table, surrounded by poised executives and hovering cameras. But the moment he saw her, everything else faded.
He didn't call her name. He didn't need to. Their eyes locked across the room, and the world narrowed to a breath. In three strides, he was in front of her.
"I was looking for you," he said quietly, his voice pitched low enough for only her to hear.
"I know," she replied, chin high even as her heart stammered. "You usually do."
His gaze searched hers. "Are you alright?"
A beat.
"I'm not fragile, Adam."
"I know," he murmured. "But that doesn't mean I stop checking."
Something in her chest softened—reluctantly.
He stepped closer, his palm brushing her waist like a secret he didn't mean to give away. "I saw her talking to you."
"I handled it."
