Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 3408

"Say something!" he demanded, his tone laced with raw panic. "Are you not home?"

"I'm home!" Marina blurted out. "I just... I fell asleep in the bathtub. I forgot to text you."

She heard Carson let out a long, heavy exhale over the line. "Didn't I specifically tell you to let me know the second you got inside?"

"I'm sorry," she said earnestly.

She just wasn't used to checking in with anyone. She genuinely had completely forgotten about him the moment she walked through the door.

Carson let out a dry, incredulous scoff. "I was sitting here losing my mind with worry, and you just forgot I existed, didn't you?"

Marina's face burned with intense embarrassment.

Sensing her silence, his voice softened. "As long as you're safe. Get some rest."

Remembering her friend's text, she quickly added, "Thank you for taking care of Erin tonight. The upgrade was too much."

"Don't mention it," he replied smoothly.

"Goodnight."

"Goodnight, Marina. Sweet dreams."

Hanging up, Marina stared at her screen. There were five missed calls from Carson. He had texted her asking if she was home, and when she didn't reply for nearly an hour, he had started calling frantically.

Whether his panic had been genuine or just another layer of his perfect gentleman act, having someone care that much was undeniably comforting.

Putting aside the whole fake-fiancé arrangement, he really was an exceptional friend.

Erin's flight was late the next afternoon, so Marina drove her to the airport.

Marina smiled. "Maybe we're both just waiting for the right moment to walk away."

"Bye, you minx. I'll miss you!" Erin said reluctantly.

Watching her friend disappear through security, Marina turned and walked out of the terminal.

*

Over the next week, Marina's firm landed two massive contracts. She and her executive team practically lived at the office, working relentlessly from dawn until midnight.

Late Friday afternoon, Carson suddenly called her. "Are you free tomorrow?"

"Did you need something?" Marina asked.

"There's a gathering at the Foster family estate tomorrow. My grandfather specifically asked me to bring you. If you have the time, I'd like you to come with me."