CHAPTER 26

Bruno was hunched over a computer, his fingers typing intensely on the keyboard. The monitor's light cast a soft glow on his features, highlighting the furrowed brow and determination in his eyes. Ever since Helena had left, Bruno had been completely immersed in his work, a fact that caught the attention of his friends. It was unlike him; typically, after parting ways with a girl, Bruno would quickly get involved with someone new. But this time, things were different.

Two customers, oblivious to Bruno's apparent disinterest, chatted at the counter, eagerly waiting for his attention. He seemed lost in a world of reservation databases and schedules, paying no mind to the enthusiastic tourist leaning over the counter, her fiery red hair falling forward as she tried to catch his eye.

As she leaned in with flirty gestures, Bruno's focus remained steadfast on the screen. It was as if he had built an impenetrable fortress around him, a bubble deflecting all external distractions, including t