Music recommendation: In the Stars by Benson Boone.
Alina felt a sudden, hollow ache in the center of her chest the moment she stepped out of the Soléne Couture revolving doors. Her eyes instinctively darted to the curb, searching for the familiar, sleek silhouette of Damian's black sedan. It wasn't there.
A bittersweet smile touched her lips as she realized how quickly her body had adapted to his presence—to the safety of his shadow. For the first time in a while, the sidewalk felt exposed and cold. Not to talk of the least expected man she met either.
"Boom!"
Gina's voice erupted from behind her, followed by the playful weight of an arm draped over Alina's shoulder. Gina leaned in, peering into Alina's face with a mock-serious expression.
"Something is definitely amiss. You look like a lost puppy looking for its owner."
Alina's grip on her bags tightened, her face flushing slightly.
