Chapter 21

Adrian's POV

When I saw her by the office entrance that morning, I did what felt natural—or at least, what I thought would feel natural. I ignored her. I walked right past without a word, not even a glance. It was almost mechanical, like a defense mechanism I couldn’t explain. But the moment I did it, I felt that familiar, unsettling pull again, tightening my chest.

I didn’t understand it. There was no reason for me to feel... whatever this was. I know it wasn’t an attraction. It wasn’t even dislike. It was just there, like something lurking just below the surface every time I was around her.

She… this was the reason why I had declined going to the casino with Miguel. It didn’t feel right. And it was starting to get under my skin.

Later, when I asked her to come along to the meeting, she hesitated, probably surprised—hell, who wouldn't? But she agreed, and as soon as she did, I felt a strange sense of relief and regret.

Why didn't I say anything about the ride she rejected? Or maybe