75. A Clash of Hearts and Duties

Marissa returned home, finding peace in the familiar comfort of Efrain's arm. Nestling herself against him, she sighed contentedly. "How was your day?"

Efrain shifted his attention from the TV to her, his arms enveloping her in a warm held. "Just got back from the station, nothing eventful to report. I missed you all day, couldn't get you out of my mind," he confessed, his words a gentle caress against her ear. "I haven't even been able to concentrate on the TV."

Marissa sat up, a serious expression crossing her features. "Efrain, I need to tell you something important. It's about Aurora."

"What happened?" Efrain's concern was palpable.

Before Marissa could respond, the doorbell rang, interrupting their conversation. "Can we talk later? Marcus is here with pizza," he suggested, hoping to delay the discussion until they had more privacy.

Marissa watched as Efrain rose from the couch and made his way to the door, her heart heavy with the weight of the secret she carried. She longed to