The sudden close proximity of Carlow’s striking features caused Karina’s heart to skip a beat.


    With a nervous swallow, she instinctively stepped back, urging, “Hey, give me some space, will you? We’re hardly friends!”


    Carlow, undeterred, closed the distance between them, his gaze exuding a gentle warmth.


    “I thought we were pretty close after our little moment in the car,” he remarked.


    His undeniable charm rendered her flustered, her heart racing uncontrobly.


    As the elevator doors opened, Karina hastily pushed past him and fled.


    What was his deal? Was he flirting with her? She wondered.


    Carlow followed her out, amused.


    “Should I bring the shirt you stained, or will youe to retrieve it?”


    Karina shot him a sidelong nce as she approached Haleigh’s apartment.


    “Whatever works for you,” she replied dismissively.


    “Why don’t you swing by tomorrow morning to grab it?” Carlow suggested.


    Karina said nothing and swiftly unlocked the door with her fingerprint and slipped inside.


    ‘s BunnyBookery


    The door closed softly behind her, leaving Carlow standing at his own doorstep, a deep smile twinkling in his eyes.


    As much as he longed to embrace her, he knew it wasn’t yet time to reveal his true identity.


    He was cautious of attracting unwanted attention from prying eyes.


    Better to let things unfold naturally, just like this.


    Inside, Karina leaned against the door, releasing a long sigh.


    That man was really starting to test her patience!


    “Karina, there you are,”


    Haleigh’s voice broke the silence as she emerged from her room, wrapped in a coat upon hearing the door.


    Karina suppressed her thoughts, managing a smile.


    “Yeah, Haleigh, you haven’t gone to bed, huh?”


    “Just about,” Haleigh replied, pouring Karina a ss of water.


    “Why are you back sote? Driving at night can be risky.


    If it’s toote, just stay at a hotel next time.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ”


    epting the ss, Karina reassured her, “Don’t worry, I didn’t drive back tonight.


    Someone gave me a ride.


    ”


    Haleigh asked, “Was it a guy who brought you back?”


    Karina took a sip of water, offering a nonmittal hum in response.