She stood up again, this time without resistance. She was still smiling, but her heart raced out of rhythm—a mix of nervousness and anticipation that made her feel alive in a different way. She lifted the glass dome that covered the two cups of chocolate mousse topped with fresh strawberries. Her hands trembled slightly.

Arthur watched her in silence, his eyes following every movement as if she were a rare dance performed only for him. There was respect in that quiet admiration, but also a rest