Chapterr 35

(Emily's POV).

“Where is he?” I asked, feeling alone because I woke up that morning to the unsettling emptiness beside me.

The sheets, still warm from where Mike had been, were now cold to the touch.

I stretched lazily, the memory of last night’s intimacy still vivid in my mind, and listened for any signs of where he might be.

That's when I caught the faint murmur of voices downstairs.

Curious, I slipped out of bed, pulling on a loose shirt and jeans. The quiet buzz of conversation grew louder as I made my way to the living room.

There he was—Mike—standing by the fireplace, talking to two sharply dressed men in dark suits.

The morning sunlight streaming through the windows reflected off their polished shoes.

I hesitated for a moment, watching Mike’s expression. He looked focused, his jaw tight but his posture relaxed.

I had to admit, he was always in control, even in the most stressful situations. That’s what I loved about him—his steady presence.

I cleared my throat and stepped