The relentless New York City morning offered little solace to Elizabeth. Her head throbbed, a dull echo of last night's bachelorette party. Sunglasses perched precariously on her nose, she navigated the familiar route to her office, clinging to the promise of a double espresso.

She'd walked the few blocks, hoping the crisp air would shake off the lingering haze of alcohol and loud music. Her white silk blouse, a valiant attempt at looking professional, felt too formal for her current state.

“Double espresso to go!” she heard, pulling her from her thoughts of her strict boss. Clutching the warm cup, she stepped out of the coffee shop, turning left, her usual path.

Then, without warning, she collided. Not with a person, but what felt like a solid, unyielding wall. Hot coffee splashed across her chest, a burning sensation spreading from her breasts to her navel. Her jaw dropped. “Wth?” she muttered, pulling off her sunglasses, ready to unleash a torrent of anger.

But her words caught in her throat. She looked up, and into eyes that were a mesmerizing swirl of hazel and gold, deep pools that held her captive. A strange, unfamiliar whirlwind of emotions stirred within her, something she couldn't name.