I can't .

~3~

POV Carlos:

Lewis really needed to stay out of my business. I get that he and Y/N have been friends for a while, but it seemed clear to me that he saw her as more than just a friend. That wasn't my concern, though. I had my own agenda, and right now, it was all about tonight with her.

I hurried to my room to get ready, the anticipation of seeing her stirring something inside me. Once I had picked out my outfit, I stepped into the shower, but my thoughts wouldn't leave me. I couldn't stop thinking about Lewis' words, his warning about Y/N not showing up. How long had he known her? They were close, which meant it must've been years.

I found it strange that I hadn't noticed her before. But then, I had been in a relationship up until now, and I hadn't really been paying attention to anyone else. Still, the mystery surrounding her intrigued me.

Why had Lewis been so certain that she wouldn't be on time? Could she work here too? I hadn't asked enough questions, but the way she only gave me her first name felt deliberate—like she was hiding something. Why was she being so secretive?

I tried to shake off the thoughts, letting the water wash over me, but my mind kept returning to her. What was I getting myself into?

Finally, I finished up and took a moment to glance at myself in the mirror. A quick, half-smile tugged at my lips before I turned away and made my way to the elevator. But as soon as the doors closed, I felt a knot tighten in my stomach. What if she didn't show up? What if all of this was for nothing?

I couldn't shake the nervous energy creeping in. Would I wait for her, or would it be better to just go back to my own room and forget the whole thing?

I was already in too deep. I couldn't back out now.

Pov y/n:

"Dad, I have to go now. I'll try harder next time," I said, my voice sharp as I made my way toward the door.

My father's gaze was unwavering, and I could feel his eyes on my back as I moved. "Should you have been somewhere else?" His voice cut through the air, sharp and probing.

"Yes, actually," I replied, the irritation evident in my tone. Without waiting for his response, I grabbed my cell phone from his desk and stormed out of his office.

I knew I was running late. Even though I was trying to hurry, it was already two minutes past seven by the time I stepped into the hotel elevator. I cursed under my breath. I wouldn't make it on time, but I could still try.

The elevator started its slow ascent, and I muttered to myself, "Come on, hurry up!" My impatience grew with each passing second. I fumbled for my phone, checking the time again. The delay in the lobby had cost me another five minutes.

When the elevator doors finally opened, I didn't hesitate. I rushed out without a second thought, head down, too focused on being late to pay attention to my surroundings.

And then, I collided with him.

Carlos.

I stepped back, flustered. My heart raced, and for a moment, I froze, caught off guard by the sudden closeness.

"Oh my god, I'm sorry," I blurt out, my voice rushed as I take in the unexpected collision.

"It's alright," he replies, his voice calm, though there's a hint of something else. "But, are you sure you want to go out in those clothes?"

Only then do I fully register who it is—Carlos. His arm is still around my waist, and my heart skips a beat.

"Is... is there time for me to change quickly?" I ask, my mind racing with the sudden rush of nervous energy.