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Despite his desire for rest, sleep remained elusive. Thoughts of the unresolved situation with Lauren haunted his mind, weaving through his thoughts like a persistent echo. Tossing and turning in bed, he found himself unable to shake off the weight of the day's events.

In the early hours of the morning, as the first light of dawn filtered through the curtains, Alex reluctantly rose from bed, his mind still plagued by the unresolved conversation with Lauren. He dressed hastily, the anticipation of another demanding day at work looming over him.

Ava, noticing the tension etched on his face, reached out to him. " Are you okay? "

He forced a smile, trying to alleviate her concern. " Just a lot on my mind, but I'll manage "

Leaning in, he pressed a brief kiss to her forehead, promising to return home early once again. With a heavy heart, he bid her goodbye, the longing to resolve the lingering situation with Lauren gnawing at him.

Arriving at the office, Alex hoped for a calmer day, yet t