The midnight air at Miller’s Ridge Overlook was sharp and cool, sweeping across the dark pine canopy that blanketed the valley below. Miles in the distance, the sprawling grid of the city hummed like a distant galaxy of amber and white fireflies—far enough away that the chaotic demands of board meetings, schedules, and adult obligations felt completely non-existent.
In the center of the gravel pull-off sat Mark’s heavy black SUV, its dark-tinted windows reflecting the pale moonlight. The engine was killed, leaving only the soft hum of the night air and the quiet, steady rhythm of their breathing inside the spacious, leather-scented cabin.
Sophia leaned her head back against the plush leather headrest of the passenger seat, taking a long, deep breath. She was dressed simply in dark leggin
