CHAPTER 287

ARIA’S POV

Adam has been trying to connect with me ever since I stepped into his house. His attempts are relentless, each gesture and glance heavy with unspoken desires. I can see the hope flickering in his eyes, the belief that there is a chance for us to be together again—or to start anew.

But I am here only until he fully recovers and can return to work. I remind myself of this constantly, even as the days stretch into weeks, and his recovery, although gradual, seems to take forever. Sometimes, I wonder if he is faking it, prolonging his convalescence just to keep me close.

His frustration is apparent, especially with my father’s appointment of Connor as my bodyguard. Connor’s constant presence is a silent but powerful reminder of the dangers that still lurk and of my father’s unwavering protectiveness. I know Adam wishes he could be the one protecting me, a role he would have gladly taken on. I roll my eyes, exasperated by Adam's determination to win me back. His persistence is b