The hotel lobby buzzed with muted conversations and the soft clinking of glasses. You sat quietly on the plush chair, a book in your hands, trying to drown out the world around you. Your father was deep in discussion with his business partners, yet your gaze kept wandering to one person. Andreas Dietrich, your father’s old friend, seemed out of place among the crowd of stern businessmen. He had a relaxed demeanor, a sharp suit that complemented his charm, and the habit of catching your eye whenever he glanced your way.

“Still reading, huh?”

his deep voice interrupted your thoughts, pulling you out of the book. He was suddenly there, crouching slightly to meet your gaze, a small smile tugging at his lips.

“I saw a gelato stand outside. Care to join me?”

Before you could respond, your father’s voice boomed from across the room. “No need, Andreas. She’s fine. Don’t trouble yourself.”

But Andreas only chuckled, as if ignoring your father’s protests was second nature to him.

“It’s no trouble at all,”

he replied smoothly, holding out his hand to you.

“What’s life without a little sweetness?”

You hesitated, glancing between him and your father, but there was something comforting in his smile—like he genuinely didn’t mind. And for some reason, you found yourself taking his hand.

“Let’s keep this our little secret,”

he whispered after your father walked away, leading you toward the lobby doors.