Sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, spilling into the kitchen in a soft golden glow. It shimmered across the white marble countertop, while a few pots of fresh herbs in the corner released a faint, calming fragrance. Neatly arranged, colorful tableware lined the wooden cabinets, and the air carried the warm scent of freshly brewed coffee and toasted bread.
Allen slipped off his apron, washed his hands, and ran his fingers through his slightly tousled curls. He glanced at himself in the mirror, making sure he still looked sharp—effortlessly handsome and composed. Then he leaned casually against the doorframe, relaxed yet confident, a hint of warmth flickering in his eyes.
The door opened, and Tiffany stepped inside.
She had changed into a light silk dress, the soft fabric gently tracing the curves of her figure. The delicate line of her shoulders and neck appeared and disappeared with each subtle movement, the hem of her dress swaying lightly—simple, yet perfectly accentuating her elegance.
Allen bent slightly, taking her hand, his voice low and soft.
"Can I hold you?"
Tiffany froze for a second, caught off guard—but before she could respond, he had already lifted her into his arms. His warmth wrapped around her, drawing out a quiet breath from her lips as their heartbeats echoed clearly between them.
She tilted her head up. He lowered his—kissing her.
A faint sweetness lingered on his lips, spreading through her in an instant. Instinctively, she slipped her arms around his neck, shy yet unable to resist. A soft flush crept onto Allen's face as well.
Holding her carefully, he carried her to the sofa and gently laid her down. One arm remained around her waist, while with the other, he brought a small piece of breakfast to her lips—feeding her a bite of French toast. The sweetness melted on her tongue, blending with the lingering warmth of his kiss.
As Tiffany savored the taste, she let out a soft note of admiration before asking casually,
"About the good news you mentioned earlier… the supervisor called just now. You were still asleep, so I answered for you. He said you should go in this afternoon… and mentioned something about a refund…"
She paused, her brows knitting slightly.
"A refund? Did he mention any names… like Hao?"
"No. Maybe we can ask later."
Tiffany stood up quickly.
"Thanks, babe. I really hope it's good news."
But she knew it wasn't that simple.
It couldn't be just about a refund.
A sense of urgency tightened in her chest—she needed answers now, not later in the afternoon.
She couldn't wait.
She had to leave immediately.