Aria's POV
I felt incredibly upbeat, so much that I even devoured an extra half portion at lunch. The good mood had me humming as I played my baby grand piano all afternoon, losing myself in the music until after two o'clock when Summer called to confirm next week's work schedule. Only then did I reluctantly leave my piano room.
The charity concert in France was happening next Saturday, which meant I needed to fly out by Thursday. As I hung up, I suddenly realized I hadn't mentioned this trip to Aiden yet.
My finger hovered over my phone, but seeing it was already past five, I changed my mind. Better to tell him in person anyway.
Aiden arrived home earlier than usual today. I had just finished my yoga session when I heard movement in the kitchen. Rising instinctively from my mat, I padded out of the home gym toward the sound.
He was leaning casually against the kitchen island, sipping water. When his dark eyes found mine, they lit with that familiar spark that still made my pulse quicken.
"Just finished working out?" he asked, his gaze traveling slowly over my form-fitting yoga outfit that highlighted every curve of my body.
I hadn't thought much about my appearance until I caught the appreciative heat in his stare. My ears burned as I felt my skin flush under his attention.
Aiden turned to pour me a glass of water. As I took it, our fingers brushed, sending a tiny shiver through me. I took several gulps before looking back up at him.
"I need to go to France next week for a charity concert," I said. "I'm helping out a friend." Though of course, it was a paid performance too.
"Which day?" he asked.
"The performance is Saturday, but I need to fly out Thursday." I watched his expression carefully.
Aiden's eyes met mine. "How long will you be gone?"
As he spoke, he reached forward unexpectedly, his fingers gently brushing a stray strand of hair from my cheek. The light touch sent tingles across my skin.
"Probably until Monday," I admitted, feeling slightly flustered by his proximity.
"So five days then," he murmured.
I nodded. "Mmhmm."
I bit my lower lip, wanting to tell him I'd bring him back a gift, but decided to keep it as a surprise instead.
At that moment, Nanny appeared, her timing impeccable as always. "Sir, ma'am, dinner will be ready in about ten minutes."
I had to admire how Nanny always timed meals perfectly whenever Aiden came home, regardless of whether he arrived early or late. She always had dinner ready about fifteen minutes after his arrival.

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