Stella's POV

The clock hand on the wall seemed slower than usual. It was already past six, and the café was almost empty—only two customers were still flipping through newspapers at the tables in the corner. I was behind the counter, checking the day's cash register for the third time. My feet ached, my eyes were heavy, but there was something comforting about the routine.

"Stella." The deep voice behind me made me look up.

Alexander was standing at the door, wearing a smile that almost al