The car ride was quiet and awkward.
Brianna sat pressed against her side of the seat, twisting her wedding ring around her finger. It felt too heavy to carry, and she kept blinking tears back.
She kept her gaze fixed outside the window, watching the city lights grow brighter as the car left the quiet suburbs behind.
Beside her, William scrolled through his phone, though she noticed the way his fingers drummed lightly on his knee between messages.
Every few seconds, he glanced at her as though he wanted to say something, but then he would immediately return to staring at the screen.
Then his phone rang.
"Yeah," William said, answering immediately. His tone was low and businesslike. "I'll be there in an hour. Just send me the files."
He immediately ended the call, sliding his phone into his jacket pocket.
Bri stole a glance at him but quickly looked away when their eyes almost met. She turned back to the window.
The city skyline came into view, tall buildings glowing under the Los Angeles night sky. That's when it hit her. They were heading downtown.
A few minutes later, the car slowed and turned into a private driveway leading into a sleek, glass fronted apartment building, and the security gate opened instantly.
Within a minute, the Rolls Royce pulled into a private parking area below the building. William immediately opened his door, then circled to hers. "Watch your step," he said quietly as he offered his hand.
Bri hesitated but took it, stepping out into the cool night air.
Without letting go of her hand, William led Bri to what she assumed to be a private elevator, then he let go of her hand as they rode up in silence. When the elevator finally opened to a large pair of doors, he pulled a key card from his suit jacket, swiped it, and they stepped into a spacious living room. Bri paused just inside the doorway, her nerves catching up to her.
William walked in and placed his phone on the counter, then finally spoke.
"We'll be staying here for now," he said, his voice calm but slightly distant. "The house in Bel Air isn't ready yet. Construction should be done in a few months." After a short awkward silence, he continued "Let me show you to your room."
Bri nodded. "Okay."