The neon sign buzzed faintly over the glass windows, casting a pink glow across the old diner booths. Chloe sat with her hands wrapped around a mug of coffee that had long gone cold. Her stomach churned with nerves, but she forced herself to stay seated, repeating silently, You owe him this.

The bell above the door jingled. Noah walked in, tall and casual in a dark jacket, scanning the room until his eyes landed on her. His mouth curved into that familiar lopsided grin as he ...