The New York sky, washed in shades of gray, signaled the early arrival of night. A cold wind sliced between the buildings like blades while the city lights flicked on one by one, bringing life to skyscraper windows and to the distracted eyes of hurried pedestrians on the sidewalks.

High above, in a sleek hotel suite, the room where Zoe was staying radiated comfort and modernity. The heating kept the space warm, a sharp contrast to the icy world outside. She sat curled in an armchair by the window, wrapped in a plush robe, hands cupped around a steaming mug of tea.

The day had been relentless at the side of her demanding “big boss,” who barely left room to breathe. Yet even with her body tired, a faint smile curved her lips. Her mind kept circling back to a little mischief she’d pulled that morning.

Her phone buzzed on the side table. The screen lit up with Arthur’s name. Just seeing it made Zoe’s heart beat faster. She answered with a spark in her eyes.

“Hi, beautiful,” Arthur’s warm