Chapter 28

MARCUS

It's been three days since the Mariella incident, and things have been quite uncomfortable between Nicole and me.

She's been avoiding any conversation with me, only responding with a nod or two.

This situation is troubling me, and I'm not happy with how things are going. I've tried reaching out to her to discuss the matter, but she seems to be ignoring me.

As I stood up from my chair, I let out a yawn. I've been working tirelessly, sorting through emails since early morning.

I walked up the stairs to the terrace, hoping the fresh air would clear my head. As I reached the top, movement caught my eye.

There was Nicole, her hair wrapped up in a towel, and another towel wrapped around her body. She was walking quickly, water droplets dripping off her skin.

My eyes couldn't help but appreciate her beauty at that moment. But as she caught sight of me, her face hardened. I gave her a small wave and smiled, hoping to break the ice.

But she gave me a sideways glance before turning aw