Chapter 232

Megan's POV

Sunbeams streamed across the wide studio windows and reflected on everything. It was very early in the morning; the city woke up little by little. I had come here to find some peace in which to work on my painting. Still, my mind kept drifting back to the night before.

I'd lost myself in thought, replaying the conversation with Chris and Max at the café. Definitely an odd evening—full of words not said and tension. Chris was my rock, my anchor in this whirlwind of a world, but Max.. well, Max was an enigma. He challenged me in ways I hadn't looked forward to.

"Morning," a familiar voice cut through my reverie.

I turned to see Chris, who now stood at the doorway with coffee in both his hands. His smile was soft and comforting. "Morning," I said, and he smiled back. "You're up early."

He passed me a cup and sat beside me. "Couldn't sleep. Thought to join you here."

I sipped at the coffee, feeling the warmth. "Thanks for