In the mirror, the two of them held each other’s gaze.

After a moment, Francesca hummed softly. “Then it’s fine.”

She didn’t tell Julian directly. She was afraid it would be a false alarm. But the excitement inside her wouldn’t settle, and it showed—when she ate the dumplings, she was clearly distracted.

Julian picked a few up for her. “Your favorites. Eat more.”

Francesca gave a faint smile and lowered her head to taste ...