Page 94 of Before Dawn

He arched an eyebrow, tapping a pen against the stack of documents in front of him. “That expansion of yours is ambitious, but if anyone can handle it, it’s you.”

“And that’s why I’m here.” I sank into the chair across from him. “I need the final bid airtight. No surprises, no loose ends.”

He chuckled, shaking his head. “You always bring me the fun ones, don’t you?”

“Wouldn’t want you getting bored, Reyes.”

When it came to anything legal, Arnoldo was the only one I trusted—he was the best in the business. We dove straight into the meeting, and as always, he was thorough, challenging every assumption and making sure we covered all the bases.

Two hours later, we’d addressed every concern and finalized the contracts, confirming the expansion was set in motion.

I stood up and stretched, letting out a long breath. “Alright, everything good?”

“We’re good,” Arnoldo said, leaning back in his chair. “Everything’s set. Nice work,amigo.44”

I grabbed my laptop and slung my bag over my shoulder, ready to head out. Arnoldo glanced at me, amusement flickering in his eyes.

“By the way,” he said, pointing at me, “what’s with the casual look today? Showing off your tattoos?”

I glanced down at my outfit—definitely more laid-back than usual. I hadn’t thought much of it, but it was clearly different from my usual business attire.

“I’m heading to Abigail’s place,” I said, shrugging.

His eyebrows shot up. “Am I supposed to know who that is?”

I smirked. “The woman I’ve been seeing.”

Arnoldo leaned forward, mock offense written all over his face. “Why am Ialwaysthe last to find out?”

I chuckled, shaking my head. “A little dramatic, aren’t you, Reyes?”

“Dramatic? Offended? Same thing!”

I rolled my eyes. “Dramático.45”

“So, what’s she like? Are you happy?”

“I don’t think I’ve ever been happier,” I replied, the thought of her bringing an automatic smile to my face. “She’s funny, smart, and possibly the most gorgeous woman I’ve ever laid eyes on.”

“You’ve got it bad,” Arnoldo teased, standing up to stretch. “But hey, as long as you’re happy. Don’t want you getting hurt.”

“Yeah, yeah,” I laughed. “Thank you, Reyes.”

Abigail-Ann

I didn’t think he’d actually come.

Sure, I’d thrown the idea out there earlier during our FaceTime call—half-joking, half-testing the waters—but I hadn’t expected him to show up in the middle of the week.

But here he was.

Mikkel stood at my door, holding a bouquet of primroses, a shopping bag, a white box, and a black leather bag slung over his shoulder. His gaze was steady, like he’d been waiting for this moment—for me.

“Hey, Red.” His voice was smooth, deep, like he was drinking me in.

“Hey,” I murmured, my breath catching as my eyes roamed over him.

He looked unfairly good, the kind of good that made the room feel too warm,too small.But it wasn’t just his looks—it was the way he stood there, like he’d drop anythingto be here.

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