Chapter 971

"Drink a little—it'll help," Sidney said softly, holding the water bottle closer to her.

Maria looked at the water being offered, then took it from his hand, sipping it slowly. As she drank, Sidney's eyes never left her, studying her quietly.

Neither of them spoke for the rest of the drive.

When the car finally came to a stop, the driver announced, "We're here."

Sidney turned to her. "I’ll walk you up."

Maria didn’t object, and they stepped out into the cool night. The breeze was crisp, refreshing after the warmth of the villa, and they walked in silence. Maria moved at a leisurely pace ahead, while Sidney followed closely behind, his gaze fixed on her, growing more intense with each step.

Suddenly, Maria stopped.

Sidney halted too, watching her carefully, waiting for her next move.

She turned to face him, a playful smile on her lips, her hands resting casually behind her back. "After going to Selena’s wedding today, I realized… maybe marriage isn’t so bad after all."

Sidney’s heart b