The day had been long for James. Not just physically but mentally as well.
The morning tee time at the Bel-Air Country Club and the afternoon training session with Mr. Donovan had left his muscles pleasantly sore.
Abd lately, his life had become a maze of different schedules. But unlike the James from two weeks ago, this version had already begun adapting.
Back then, he would've been absolutely famished by now. But now? His body had adjusted. So had his routine.
Even the exhaustion didn't settle in quite the same way anymore. His willpower — his focus — had sharpened. Pain became background noise. Discipline became instinct.
He had just finished a late lunch — roasted chicken, sautéed greens, and a glass of lemon water — and was heading toward the living room to join Patty and Leslie for a quiet night of movies. A rare treat. Something normal and warm.
But just as he reached the hallway, his phone buzzed.
He glanced down at the screen.
Alina.
