Seventy Seven

After they left the park, Nicholas walked Isabella to her apartment. She paused in front of the door, giving Nicholas a faint smile. The night felt filled with unspoken things, like there was a subtle distance between them, yet at the same time, a pull that made it hard for them to part ways.

"Do you want to come in for a bit, Nick?" Isabella asked softly, her voice carrying a tone that was hard to read.

Nicholas nodded gently, accepting her offer. She opened the door, and they both stepped inside. The apartment still felt unfamiliar to Nicholas. It was neat but quiet, with a few boxes left unpacked, a sign that Isabella had just moved in.

"Nice place," Nicholas said, looking around.

Isabella gave a small smile. "There’s still a lot to do, but I’m starting to feel comfortable here."

She walked over to the small kitchen in the corner, opened a cabinet, and pulled out a bottle of wine. "Do you want some wine?" she offered, searching for two glasses. Nicholas nodded and sat on the sofa,