Adam lifted his index finger and placed it lightly against his lips. His smile was dazzling, the kind that once made half the nation scream into their pillows.
"Trade secret," he said solemnly. "If I told you, how would I ever get another chance to save the damsel in distress?"
Isabella burst out laughing. "Only after growing up did I realize that it's always the hero who shows up at the right time."
"I grew up a long time ago, alright?" Adam protested, clearly offended.
Her laughter grew brighter. She had always treated Adam like a younger brother, and being with him loosened the knot in her chest without her even noticing.
Compared to asking Brandon Hughes or Victor Steele for help, accepting Adam's kindness felt… lighter. Cleaner. Money wouldn't twist their relationship into something unrecognizable.
"In any case, thank you," she said seriously. "But I'll return the money to you."
