No one knew that Valeria and Richard had spent less than forty-eight hours in New York. And they definitely slept a full day after returning home. Just in time to welcome Elliot, who came back from the hospital.

Three days later, Valeria went out to pick up her half dozen pink roses, which this time arrived with the words “LOVE YOU” written on the note.

“Are you going out?” asked her father, watching her pour coffee into a to-go cup.

“Yes, tomorrow is the Bennet Designs’ fashion show, and I'm already tired of being in bed. I feel fine,” Valeria answered, giving him a kiss on the cheek before leaving.

She arrived at the office, accompanied by Jack and Yuri, almost before anyone else, so when Nick opened the door to the meeting room, the first thing he saw was Valeria, in the middle of a nest-like setup that she had made with all the documents.

“Val? What are you doing here? Why aren't you resting?”

Valeria looked up at him, a little surprised by the familiarity.

“Good morning, Mr