Her words hit a sore spot. It was true that Gian had never been in a relationship; all his focus had been on his studies and family business. But having Kirsten point it out so bluntly left him feeling a bit defenseless.
"I don't agree with that," Gian said, turning back to her, his expression growing more serious. "This marriage was a mutual decision to achieve a common goal. There's no feeling wronged about it."
Kirsten raised an eyebrow but didn't tease him further. She took a large gulp of coffee and mumbled, "Alright, alright. Whatever the great Mr. Atwood says."
The study fell quiet again, filled with the rustle of paper and the aroma of coffee.
An unknown amount of time passed. Dawn broke. The first rays of morning light slipped through the gaps in the curtains, illuminating the mountains of files. Kirsten's eyelids grew heavy, sleep washing over her like a tide. She forced herself to look at the data on the screen one last time before finally succumbing to exhaustion, slumping onto the desk and falling fast asleep.
She slept so soundly that she didn't notice when Gian stopped his work. He looked at her peaceful, sleeping face, her long lashes casting shadows on her cheeks, the corners of her lips slightly upturned. Gian moved quietly, taking his jacket from the back of his chair and carefully draping it over her shoulders. The coat still carried his warmth, enveloping Kirsten in a gentle cocoon.
After that, Gian didn't stop working, but his movements became even quieter. He worked for another two hours until the morning light fully illuminated the study. Then, he finally put down his pen and went out to buy a hot breakfast.
Kirsten was woken by the faint aroma of nourishing soup. She blinked her eyes open, her head still foggy, the jacket having slipped partly off her shoulders. She pushed herself up, rubbing her eyes, and noticed an insulated container on the corner of the desk, next to several small, delicate side dishes and buns.
Gian was sitting in the chair opposite her, still reviewing the files. He looked even more worn out than last night, and a layer of dark stubble had appeared on his chin, adding a touch of rugged maturity to his features.

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