LINA POV:
I glanced at Christian, catching the small smile on his lips as he saved my phone number. A faint warmth rose to my cheeks, but I quickly averted my gaze and focused back on my work. There were a few documents sent by Addison that needed sorting, and I wasn't one to leave tasks unattended. The quiet hum of the air filled the living room as I skimmed through the papers, organizing them methodically.
Twenty minutes later, I set the documents aside, stretched my arms, and stood up. Without a word, I walked out of the living room, pulling my phone from my pocket as I dialed a familiar number.
"Veronica, book me a flight to San Francisco for tomorrow afternoon," I instructed without preamble.
There was a brief pause before Veronica replied, "Got it. Do you need a return ticket as well?"
I hesitated. My stay depended on how quickly I could handle the work, especially since Raun was hospitalized. The incoming project was crucial, and I didn't want any delays.
"No, just one-way for now," I said, then ended the call before Veronica could probe further.
Taking a deep breath, I stepped outside to the garden. The gentle breeze caressed my skin, carrying the soft scent of blooming flowers. My eyes scanned the garden, and I smiled when my gaze landed on a rare blue rose. Intrigued, I took out my phone and clicked a picture, uploading it to my Instagram.
"Do you like blue roses?"
I turned to see Christian standing nearby, his hands in his pockets, watching me with curiosity.
I gave a small smile, tucking my phone away. "Every flower is beautiful in its meaning. I don't differentiate between them. But sometimes, a memory makes people like or dislike certain things."
Christian's smile deepened. He reached out and plucked a blue rose from the garden, twirling it between his fingers before offering it to me.
"I don't know what this flower means," he admitted, "but I hope you like it."
I hesitated for a second before taking the flower. The petals felt soft against my fingertips, and I found myself appreciating the simple gesture.
Christian shifted slightly, his gaze holding mine. "The chef is preparing lunch, and Ray is still asleep. Want to take a walk? There's a peaceful location about fifteen minutes away."
I blinked, my thoughts racing. "Next time? Are we even going to meet again after I leave Italy?"
I shook the thought away as Christian raised an eyebrow, waiting for my answer.
After a moment, I nodded. "Sure, let's go."
I had already sorted out the documents, and a short walk wouldn't hurt.
As we left the garden, I noticed a sleek black Bugatti parked nearby. Christian pulled out his car key, and the vehicle blinked in response. Without a word, he moved to the passenger side and opened the door for me.
I glanced at him before settling into the seat, but I noticed how he casually placed his hand above the car's frame, ensuring I wouldn't bump my head. It was a small gesture, yet it made something stir inside me.
Christian shut the door and walked to the driver's side, sliding in effortlessly. With a smooth motion, he started the engine, and the car purred to life. As he drove towards our destination, the silence between us wasn't awkward, it was comfortable, filled with unspoken thoughts and fleeting glances.