Chapter 5 The Weight of Empty Promises

The past always finds its way back.

Amara's footsteps echoed across the lobby of her office building, heels clicking against polished marble. She clutched her planner like a shield, praying today would remain uneventful.

But fate had other plans.

The moment the elevator doors parted, her heart stalled.

Carter.

His familiar, infuriatingly handsome face greeted her with the same charming smile-the smile that used to melt her defenses-the same eyes that once whispered promises he shattered.

"Amara," he greeted smoothly, stepping out, perfectly tailored suit crisp, arrogance intact.

Her pulse quickened, not from longing-but the sharp sting of betrayal buried beneath her ribs.

"What are you doing here?" Her voice was steel.

"Business meeting," Carter replied casually. "Imagine my luck running into you."

She forced a neutral mask onto her face, slipping past him.

"We should catch up," he added, falling into step beside her.

"We shouldn't," she snapped, not slowing.

His chuckle was low. "Still stubborn. I liked that about you."

"You liked breaking trust," Amara corrected, icy.

Before Carter could respond, Lucian's voice interrupted, warm yet edged with quiet concern.

"Everything okay?"

Amara turned, relief flooding her chest. Lucian stood a few feet away, camera bag slung over his shoulder, eyes locked on Carter.

Carter's brows lifted. "Friend of yours?"

"Photographer," Lucian introduced himself, reading the tension instantly. "Here to capture the chaos."

Amara's lips curved slightly despite herself.

Carter smirked, stepping back. "Good luck with that," he tossed over his shoulder, disappearing into the crowd.

The moment he was gone, Amara exhaled sharply.

"Ex?" Lucian asked softly.

"Mistake," Amara corrected.

Lucian's gaze searched hers, patient but protective. "Want to talk about it?"

Her throat tightened.

"Not yet," she admitted.

"I'll wait," Lucian promised simply.

For the first time, Amara believed him.