When Lily woke up the next morning, the sun was streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a warm, golden glow over the penthouse bedroom. She blinked a few times, trying to gather her thoughts and remember where she was. As the events of the previous night came rushing back, she felt a mix of emotions; relief, gratitude, and a lingering sadness.
She turned over in bed and saw that she was alone. A pang of disappointment hit her, but then her eyes caught sight of a neatly folded note on the bedside table. She reached out and picked it up, recognizing Nick’s handwriting immediately.
“Sorry I had an emergency, I had to go. There are new clothes for you on the table. – Nick.”
Lily sighed and smiled faintly, appreciating his thoughtfulness despite his abrupt departure. She slow
