Chapter 4

The key felt heavier than usual as I turned it in Christopher's apartment door. I'd come early to surprise him with coffee and pastries from his favorite bakery—a small gesture to bridge the growing distance between us after last night's anniversary disaster.

"Christopher?" I called softly, balancing the coffee tray as I stepped inside. "I brought breakfast."

Silence greeted me, but I could hear the shower running upstairs. Perfect. I'd have time to set everything up nicely, maybe even crawl back into bed with him and pretend last night never happened.

I was arranging the pastries on plates when I…