Layson stood by the elevator, waiting. The moment the doors slid open, his lips curled into a rare, almost imperceptible smile. It was a stark contrast to his usual cold demeanor. He had timed this perfectly—he knew exactly when Adela would be leaving. When Leopold had called, he had already been on his way. It was time they saw each other again.
"Hello."
That single word carried the weight of five years. Five years of waiting. Five years of holding back emotions he never fully processed. It wasn't just a greeting—it was a declaration. You’re here. Finally.
Adela stepped out of the elevator, momentarily caught off guard. She had expected many things today, but running into Layson Norman was not one of them. She had, of course, been aware that he was in the city. After all, New York was
