⸻
Chapter 4: Coffee and Confessions
Rain had followed them all week like a shadow, turning the streets of the city into mirrors reflecting neon lights. Emma hated rainy days, but she found herself strangely comforted by the rhythm of droplets against the office windows.
Julian appeared at her desk, holding two steaming cups of coffee. "You look like you're about to gnaw your laptop to pieces," he said, handing her one cup.
She raised an eyebrow but took it. "Thanks… I suppose."
They sat in silence for a few minutes, the office quiet except for the hum of fluorescent lights. Then Julian spoke, almost reluctantly.
"I… I didn't expect this job to be so… collaborative. I usually work alone."
Emma sipped her coffee, intrigued. "You don't like help?"
"No… it's not that. I just… I don't let people in easily." His gaze lingered on hers for longer than necessary.
Emma felt something stir, a mix of curiosity and empathy. "Well, you're letting me in now. That counts for something."
Julian's lips twitched, a small smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Maybe."
The air between them shifted—warmer now, softer. A silent acknowledgment that maybe, just maybe, there was more to their relationship than deadlines and edits.