CHAPTER 96

ARIA’S POV

Everything has been pretty calm at Adam’s residence. Grandpa’s condition remains the same, but he continues to pamper me with his sweet words and affection. Without Sophia, Elodie, or Eva around, I feel more at ease in the house.

I've settled into a routine, and every morning before I leave for work, I reassure Grandpa that everything is going well and that I enjoy my job. He seems to have forgotten that I no longer work at Adam’s firm, so Adam and I maintain the façade by leaving together each day.

Despite this, I miss driving my own car and hate the daily car rides with Adam. I feel that we are getting closer than before, and it’s quite disturbing. The proximity brings back memories and emotions I thought I had buried. Each ride feels like a test of my resolve, making it harder to maintain the distance I need from him.

A day ago, the seat belt got stuck, and I couldn’t pull it. To my astonishment, Adam leaned in close, grabbing the seat belt from behind me. He managed to