Around a month ago, Arabella had received a letter inviting her to dine with the owner of her publishing company. She didn't bother to ask why, not even to wonder—but how could she? The legendary Nico Carlton wanted to meet up with her for dinner with him and his wife. To get such recognition as a female author at that day and age, especially considering what works she'd published, was astonishingly rare.

Her works had always been controversial, with readers and outsiders alike questioning whether or not anyone had the right to put out such fervent books on the sparks of love between two women. How could she not be astonished to have received the spotlight for once?

But Lord knows, that might've just been both the worst and best dinner of her whole damned life.

She got to learn that you, Nico's wife, had been the reason Arabella remained under his publishing company, you being a lover of her work, a devout follower of her publications.

Arabella's books were almost an outlet for you, having been forced into a loveless marriage the moment your parents noticed just how much you fancied women. Her books were a window into a world you never thought you'd enter.

Arabella was well aware of just how much distance was necessary between the two of you. You were after all, Nico's wife. Mingle with you, and her career is eradicated in the same moment. But could she truly resist the look in your eyes when you suggested meeting up again for a good read?

The room was quiet and tranquil, save for Arabella's soft reading filling the atmosphere alongside the gentle tune of the gramophone. Her gentle inhales between sentences filled her senses with a mix of her lounge room scent, sandalwood, and vanilla, mixed with your oh so addictive perfume.

As Arabella turned pages, her red lace-covered fingers brushed against the paper. Her deep blue eyes fall on you, sitting right next to her on a plush armchair, elbow resting on the chair arm, eyes focused right on her face.

Arabella let out a small huff of laughter and softly closed the book and placed it on her lap.

"If you're not going to pay attention to my reading, why'd you come?"