Chapter 64. Red Umbrella and Ice Cream

Third-Person POV

Rain came without warning that afternoon. The skies, once clear and blue, turned a soft, moody grey. The clouds hung low over the rooftops, and a light drizzle began to tap on cobblestones and storefront awnings. It wasn’t long before the drizzle turned into steady rain, soaking the city with its gentle persistence.

Vanessa hadn’t expected the sudden change. She stood at the corner of a quiet street, just outside a vintage bookstore, her arms tucked close to her body as the chill from the rain crept under her cardigan. Droplets of water speckled her hair and eyelashes. She didn’t complain, just stood there, uncertain what to do next.

And then, as if he had been watching all along, Andre appeared beside her. Tall, composed, and striking in a dark overcoat that didn’t seem to mind the rain.

He said nothing at first. Instead, he removed his coat without hesitation and draped it over her shoulders, the warmth and scent of it inst