Chapter 396

Madison

My hand was on the gearshift when a familiar Aston Martin pulled into the lot.

My heart jumped into my throat as Alexander emerged from the car. He wore dark jeans and a white button-down, sleeves rolled to his elbows. Casual but still somehow expensive looking.

He spotted me immediately and walked over. I climbed out of my car, suddenly hyperaware of everything: the way my dress clung to my body, the hammering of my pulse, the late afternoon sun making his hair gleam.

“You came,” he said simply.

“You’re late.”

“Traffic.” He glanced around the park. “Should we walk?”

I nodded, not trusting my voice. We fell into step beside each other, heading toward the walking path that wound along the waterfront.

For a minute, neither of us spoke. The silence felt heavy, loaded with everything we weren’t saying.

“Nice park,” Alexander finally said.

“It’s my favorite spot in town.”

“How long have you lived here?”