As Jack reviews the final details for the upcoming merger, he's interrupted by a meeting request from the financial departments. Concerned, he heads to the conference room, where the heads of both the B4, Inc. and DeLuca International finance teams are waiting.

The room is tense, and Jack can sense the gravity of the situation. The department heads exchange uneasy glances before one of them finally speaks up. "Jack, we've uncovered some major discrepancies while preparing for the merger. It seems there are significant inconsistencies between the financial records of both companies."

Jack's brow furrows. "Discrepancies? Can you be more specific?"

The head of B4's finance department nods and slides a report across the table. "We've found that certain expenses and revenue streams don't match up between the two sets of records. For example, there are discrepancies in reported revenue figures and some expenses that don't align with what was previously documented."

The DeLuca International finance head adds, "Additionally, we've noticed some unusual transactions and inconsistencies in the way financial data has been recorded. This could potentially affect the accuracy of our financial projections and valuations."

Jack takes a deep breath, reviewing the documents. "This is serious. If there are errors or discrepancies, it could complicate the merger process. We need to get to the bottom of this quickly."

The team agrees, and Jack decides to hold a series of detailed audits to trace the source of these discrepancies. He asks for full cooperation from both finance departments and insists on a thorough review of all financial records and transactions.

As the investigation progresses, Jack works closely with the finance teams, meticulously checking records, reconciling accounts, and addressing any anomalies. The process is time-consuming and stressful, but Jack is determined to ensure the accuracy of the financial data before moving forward with the merger.

In the meantime, Jack keeps Maya and Carina updated on the situation. During a late evening meeting, he explains the findings. "We've found some serious discrepancies that need to be resolved before we can proceed with the merger. The finance teams are working on a detailed audit to identify the sources of these issues."

Carina, concerned, asks, "How long do you think this will take?"

Jack sighs. "It's hard to say right now. We're prioritizing getting everything resolved as quickly as possible, but it will depend on the complexity of the discrepancies we're dealing with."

Maya, though worried, reassures Carina, "We'll get through this. Jack and the teams are on top of it. Let's stay focused and support them in any way we can."

The financial departments work around the clock, and Jack oversees the process with diligence. After days of intense scrutiny, they begin to pinpoint the issues, discovering that some discrepancies were due to clerical errors, while others pointed to more significant issues that needed addressing.

— — —

After a long week filled with work and stress, Maya and Carina decide to unwind with a relaxing night in their hot tub. The evening air is crisp, but the warm, bubbling water provides a comforting contrast. They slip into their swimsuits and head out to the terrace, where the hot tub is set up with a perfect view of the city lights below.

As they settle into the warm water, the tension from their busy week begins to melt away. Maya lets out a contented sigh, leaning back against the hot tub's edge. "This is just what we needed. It feels amazing to finally relax."

Carina nods in agreement, her eyes closing as she enjoys the soothing warmth. "I couldn't agree more. Sometimes it's nice to just get away from everything and focus on us."

They both settle into a comfortable silence, listening to the gentle hum of the jets and the distant sounds of the city. Maya reaches for a glass of wine she had set aside earlier, handing it to Carina. "Here, I thought you might enjoy this."

Carina takes the glass with a grateful smile, taking a sip and savoring the taste. "Thank you. This is perfect."

Maya leans over and clinks her glass against Carina's. "To us, and to taking time to enjoy the simple things."

Carina grins, her eyes twinkling in the soft light. "Cheers to that."

Maya takes a sip of her own drink and turns to Carina with an excited glint in her eye. "I've got some news about Cascade Distilleries. I talked to the owner today, and they're working on a new batch of whiskey that's aged in wine barrels."

Carina lifts her head, intrigued. "Aged in wine barrels? That sounds interesting. What's it supposed to taste like?"

Maya nods enthusiastically. "Yeah, it's supposed to add some really unique flavors to the whiskey. The idea is that the whiskey will pick up some of the nuances from the wine barrels—like a subtle hint of fruitiness or maybe even a bit of oak."

Carina raises an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "That sounds like it could be amazing. When will they have it ready?"

Maya smiles. "The owner mentioned that the batch isn't quite finished yet, but as soon as it's ready, they're going to send me a bottle. I'm really looking forward to trying it."

Carina leans in closer, her curiosity piqued. "Do you think it'll be different from the other whiskeys we've tried?"

Maya nods thoughtfully. "Definitely. The aging process in wine barrels adds a different dimension to the whiskey. I'm expecting it to have a richer, more complex flavor profile. It'll be interesting to compare it to the other ones we've tasted."

Carina grins, clearly excited. "I can't wait to try it. It sounds like a unique experience."

Maya chuckles, squeezing Carina's hand. "I'm glad you're excited. I'll make sure we do a proper tasting when it arrives. It'll be a fun addition to our whiskey collection."

As they continue to relax, their conversation flows easily. They talk about their plans for the future, their upcoming projects, and the things they're looking forward to. The hot tub becomes their little sanctuary, a place where they can share their thoughts and dreams without distractions.

Carina turns to Maya with a bright smile. "I have to tell you about something cute I saw today. On my way back from the meeting, I stopped to grab some lunch, and there was this local dog rescue with some adoptable pets out front."

Maya's interest is piqued. "Really? That sounds adorable. What kind of dog did you see?"

Carina's face lights up with excitement. "There was this little puppy—so fluffy and full of energy. He had the cutest brown eyes and a playful demeanor. I couldn't help but stop and play with him for a bit."

Maya chuckles, clearly entertained by Carina's enthusiasm. "It sounds like you had a nice distraction. Did you think about adopting him?"

Carina nods, her expression thoughtful. "I did. I've been thinking about it a lot lately. I know we've talked about it before, but I wasn't sure if you were really interested in getting a pet."

Maya raises an eyebrow, intrigued. "I haven't really thought about it in a while, but now that you mention it, I've always liked the idea of having a dog. I just wasn't sure if it was the right time for us. I'm excited about the idea, but I have to admit, I'm a bit worried about whether we'll have enough time for a dog. Our schedules are pretty packed, and I don't want to take on a responsibility if we can't give the dog the attention it needs."

Carina considers this, her expression shifting to one of understanding. "That's a good point. We do have busy lives, and a dog would definitely require a lot of care and time. But maybe there's a way we can make it work."

Maya nods, appreciating Carina's consideration. "It might be worth looking into breeds that are known to be more adaptable to busy schedules. Some dogs are more independent and don't require constant attention, which might fit better with our lifestyle."

Carina thinks for a moment before responding. "That's true. We could also look into options like dog walkers or pet sitters to help out during the day. And maybe we can adjust our schedules a bit to make sure we're spending quality time with the dog."

Maya smiles, feeling reassured. "That sounds like a good plan. If we're both committed to making it work, I think we could manage. It would be great to have a dog in our lives, and we can make the necessary adjustments to ensure the dog gets the care it needs."

Carina looks at Maya with a hopeful expression. "It could be a great addition to our lives. It's something we could share and enjoy together. Plus, it might be nice to have a little furry companion around the house."

Maya considers this for a moment, her eyes reflecting the soft light of the hot tub. "You know, it could be really nice. I think I'd like having a dog, especially if it's one that's been rescued and needs a loving home."

Carina smiles, clearly pleased with Maya's response. "I'm glad to hear that. Maybe we can look into adopting a dog soon. There are so many pets that need good homes, and it might be a fun adventure for us."

Maya nods, her expression warm and thoughtful. "I agree. Let's do some research and see if we can find a good match. I think it would be great for us, and it would definitely bring a lot of joy into our lives."

At one point, Maya playfully splashes Carina, who gasps in mock outrage before retaliating with a splash of her own. Their laughter echoes softly in the night air, a refreshing reminder of their connection and the joy they find in each other's company.

As the evening progresses, the stars begin to shine brightly overhead. Maya and Carina find themselves drifting closer, their conversation becoming more intimate. They talk about their hopes for the future, their family plans, and the life they're building together.

Carina rests her head on Maya's shoulder, her voice soft. "I'm so glad we have moments like this. It reminds me of why we work so well together."

Maya wraps an arm around Carina, holding her close. "Me too. It's these simple, quiet moments that make everything worthwhile." Maya pressed her lips to the back of her neck, and Carina moaned quietly, relishing the feeling.

Maya's fingertips trailed up Carina's spine until she reached the tied neck strap of Carina's bikini top. Maya deftly untied it, one-handed, and her top fell down, floating in front of her. Maya released the other tied knot and took what now seemed a flimsy fabric scrap in her hand, plucking it from the water and flinging it to the patio tiles. Both Maya's hands slipped under the water as she took Carina's breasts in her hands. Carina leaned back into her body, stretching her neck as Maya's fingertips trapped her nipples. Maya toyed with Carina; her nipples standing to attention under the cool night air and her hips pushing back against hers, seeking some pressure or relief.

Carina leaned back to kiss Maya, and with her distracted, Maya quickly reached to slip her bottoms off. Carina pulled at Maya's trunks.

"Bambina" Carina whined.

Maya exhaled heavily, and Carina pressed into her harder, pulling Maya's hand down from her delicious teasing of Carina's breast to between her legs. After a soft brush of her clit that had Carina whimpering, she plunged two of her fingers inside of Carina.

"You are so wet," Maya whispered in her ear. "Fuck."

There was no agonizing, drawn out moment of anticipation. No enormous build up. Maya simply pulled down her shorts and slid inside Carina with one, fluid movement. Carina gasped loudly, and Maya quickly moved her hand back to a nipple. Maya's other hand held her hips steady as she began fucking Carina.

"I love the way I fit inside you" Maya whispered in her ear.

Carina looked up at her, eyes wide and desperate. Maya felt so good inside Carina. Stretching her. Carina gripped the edge of the hot tub, fingertips turning white as she could feel Maya thrusting in and out. Maya's breathing was heavy in her ear.

"Cazzo" Carina panted under her breath.

Maya moved faster, and Carina inhaled sharply. Maya was taking her apart at the seams, without even trying. Just the knowledge that Maya had her pinned with both of them completely nude on the roof top was enough to drive Carina higher.

Maya's fingers slid from gripping Carina's hip, down between her legs. While Maya's thick, hard cock had her moaning, her fingers circled Carina's clit and made her legs shake.

"So good" Maya murmured. Her praise, delivered in a husky voice thick with her own pleasure, sent Carina barreling towards a cliff.

"I'm - Maya, Cazzo" Carina purred

Maya kept up her unrelenting pace under the water.

"Together." Maya growled

Carina was panting now. Then Maya started moaning, and that was it - Carina fell over the abyss into an explosion of pleasure and couldn't stop the sounds that tumbled from her mouth. They fell into orgasm together and didn't care who heard them. After a final shudder, Maya rested her forehead against Carina's shoulder"

— — —

Maya decides she wants to plan a truly special Valentine's Day for her and Carina. She knows that a memorable evening requires a bit of help, so she reaches out to Gabrielle and Vic, knowing they have a knack for organizing beautiful events.

Maya meets with Gabrielle and Vic at a cozy café in the city to discuss her plans. Over coffee and pastries, she outlines her vision for the evening. "I want to create something really magical for Valentine's Day. I'm thinking of a romantic, intimate evening that Carina will never forget. I could really use your expertise to make it perfect."

Gabrielle, who has a keen eye for detail, leans in with interest. "I'd love to help! What do you have in mind so far?"

Maya thinks for a moment. "I was thinking of starting with a private dinner at a special restaurant. Somewhere elegant but also intimate. After that, maybe a surprise activity that Carina loves. And of course, I want to make sure there's a special touch throughout the evening—flowers, candles, and maybe even some personalized elements."

Vic, who has a talent for event planning, nods in agreement. "That sounds fantastic. We can definitely make that happen. How about we start by scouting out some venues for the dinner? We can look into places with private dining options and a romantic atmosphere."

Gabrielle adds, "And I can help with the decor. We can make sure everything from the flowers to the candles matches the mood you want to create. Maybe we could even add a few personal touches that reflect your relationship with Carina."

Maya smiles, relieved and excited by their enthusiasm. "That sounds perfect. I trust both of you completely to help make this night unforgettable. Let's make a plan and start working on the details."

With their tasks outlined, the three of them begin to brainstorm and make arrangements. Gabrielle and Vic dive into finding the ideal restaurant and organizing the decor, while Maya focuses on personal touches and surprises that will make the evening even more special.

Over the next few weeks, they coordinate their efforts meticulously. Gabrielle and Vic find a charming restaurant with a private dining room that offers a beautiful view of the city skyline. They also plan a stunning table setting with roses, candles, and delicate details that will create a romantic ambiance.

Meanwhile, Maya arranges for a special activity that Carina has always wanted to try—a private wine-tasting session with a sommelier who will guide them through a selection of rare and exquisite wines.

— — —

After a long day at work, Maya and Jack find themselves unwinding at Cascade Distillery, savoring a few of the distillery's finest whiskies. The intimate setting of the tasting room, with its warm, amber lighting and rich oak furnishings, provides a perfect backdrop for their conversation.

Jack takes a sip of his drink, his expression thoughtful. "You know, Maya, I've been thinking a lot lately. I've started looking at engagement rings."

Maya raises an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? That sounds serious. Are you planning on proposing to Jo soon?"

Jack nods, a smile playing on his lips. "It's something I've been considering. I want to be ready when the time comes. I've found a few rings that I think she would love, but I want to make sure I get it right. I've never done this before, so I want to be prepared."

Maya's eyes light up with excitement for her friend. "That's wonderful, Jack! I'm so happy for you both. Have you thought about what kind of ring you're looking for?"

Jack leans back, his gaze focused on the glass in his hand. "I have a few ideas. I know Jo loves classic styles, but I also want something that reflects her personality. I've been looking at different designs and talking to jewelers. I want it to be something truly special."

Maya smiles, her tone supportive. "It sounds like you're putting a lot of thought into this. I'm sure whatever you choose will be perfect for Jo. She's going to love it."

Jack looks relieved and grateful for Maya's encouragement. "I hope so. I just want everything to be right. I want the proposal to be as memorable as the ring itself."

Maya nods, understanding the importance of the moment. "It's all about the thought and care you put into it. I'm sure Jo will appreciate the effort you're making. And if you need any advice or help, you know I'm here for you."

Jack chuckles, his mood lightening. "Thanks, Maya. That means a lot. I'll definitely keep that in mind. I just hope I can keep it a surprise."

Maya takes a thoughtful sip of her whiskey before turning the conversation to a new topic. "Jack, I've been meaning to ask you for some advice. Carina and I have been thinking about getting a dog, but we're not quite sure where to start."

Jack looks interested and puts his glass down. "That's exciting! Have you two decided on what kind of dog you want?"

Maya shakes her head slightly. "Not yet. We're still trying to figure out what would be the best fit for our lifestyle. I'm a bit worried about balancing our busy schedules with the needs of a dog. I know you and Jo have talked about getting a pet—do you have any advice on how to manage it?"

Jack nods, considering Maya's question. "Well, Jo and I haven't adopted one yet, but we've done a lot of research. I think the key is to choose a breed that matches your lifestyle. If you're both working long hours, you might want to look into breeds that are more independent or adaptable to being alone for longer periods."

Maya listens intently. "That makes sense. We've been thinking about options that would fit with our schedules. We also talked about possibly getting help with dog walking or hiring a pet sitter."

Jack's expression brightens. "That's a great idea. A dog walker or pet sitter can make a big difference, especially if you're both working full-time. It can help ensure the dog gets enough exercise and attention during the day. Also, think about how you can adjust your schedules a bit to spend quality time with the dog. Even just a little extra effort can make a big difference."

Maya nods thoughtfully. "We've also considered how a dog might fit into our routine. It's a big commitment, and we want to make sure we're ready for it."

Jack smiles encouragingly. "It definitely is a commitment, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. If you're both ready to put in the time and effort, I think it could be a great addition to your lives. Plus, dogs can bring a lot of joy and companionship."

Maya grins, feeling reassured. "Thanks, Jack. Your advice is really helpful. I think we're on the right track, and it's good to know we can make adjustments to make it work."

Jack raises his glass. "Here's to making it work and to new beginnings with a furry friend. If you need any more advice or help, just let me know."

Maya clinks her glass with his, grateful for the support. "I will. Thanks for being so helpful."

As the evening at Cascade Distillery progresses, Jack turns to Maya with a curious expression. "So, Maya, what do you have planned for Valentine's Day? Any special plans for you and Carina?"

Maya leans back, a smile tugging at her lips. "Actually, I'm working on something pretty special. I'm planning a romantic evening for Carina, with the help of Gabrielle and Vic. We're going to start with a private dinner at a beautiful restaurant, and I've arranged for a surprise activity that I think she'll love."

Jack's eyes widen with interest. "That sounds amazing! What's the surprise activity?"

Maya's smile grows. "I don't want to give too much away just yet, but it's something that Carina has always wanted to try. I've arranged for a private wine-tasting session with a sommelier who will guide us through a selection of rare and exquisite wines. I think it will be a perfect complement to the evening."

Jack nods appreciatively. "That sounds like a fantastic plan. I'm sure Carina will love it. It's great that you're putting so much thought into making the evening special."

Maya's eyes twinkle with excitement. "I hope so. I want to make it a night she'll always remember. What about you? Do you have any plans for Valentine's Day?"

Jack looks a bit thoughtful. "I'm still working on it. I want to do something memorable for Jo, too, but I haven't quite nailed down all the details yet. I'm considering a few options, and I've been thinking about what she would enjoy the most."

Maya leans in, offering support. "If you need any help or ideas, let me know. I'd be happy to brainstorm with you. Valentine's Day is all about making the person you love feel special, and sometimes a little extra help can make a big difference."

Jack grins, appreciative of Maya's offer. "Thanks, Maya. I might take you up on that. I want to make sure it's perfect."

As the evening at Cascade Distillery winds down, Maya and Jack decide to take advantage of the distillery's hospitality and sample the new batch of whiskey that's been aged in wine barrels. The anticipation is palpable as they sit down at a cozy corner of the tasting room, surrounded by the rich, comforting aroma of whiskey.

The bartender pours two small, elegant glasses of the whiskey, presenting the deep amber liquid with a flourish. Maya and Jack lean in, taking in the aroma, which hints at both the traditional whiskey notes and a subtle, intriguing undertone of wine.

Jack raises his glass and grins. "Here's to trying something new and exciting."

Maya clinks her glass with his, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Cheers!"

They take their first sips, savoring the unique blend of flavors. The whiskey has a smooth, velvety texture, with a pronounced richness from the wine barrels. The taste is complex, with hints of oak, vanilla, and a delicate touch of fruitiness that adds a new dimension to the whiskey.

Maya takes another sip, her face lighting up with pleasure. "Wow, this is incredible. The wine barrels really add a distinctive character to the whiskey. It's like the two flavors are dancing together."

Jack nods in agreement, swirling his glass to release more of the aromas. "I can definitely taste the influence of the wine. It's got this great balance between the boldness of whiskey and the subtle sweetness of the wine. It's a really unique combination."

Maya smiles, clearly pleased with the flavor. "I'm excited to have this on hand. It'll be a great addition to our collection. And I think it's going to be a hit with Carina and our friends."

Jack takes another thoughtful sip, his expression thoughtful. "I can see this becoming a favorite. It's got that special quality that makes it stand out. Plus, it's always nice to have something unique to share."

Maya nods, enjoying the moment. "Definitely. It's these little things that make life more enjoyable. I'm glad we could sample it together."

After savoring their samples, Maya decides to bring home a bottle of the new whiskey aged in wine barrels for Carina. She rises from her seat and approaches the bar, where the bartender is wrapping up the evening's service.

"Could I get a bottle of the whiskey we just tasted?" Maya asks, her smile warm. "I'd love to bring it home for Carina. I think she'll really enjoy it."

The bartender nods and begins to carefully select a bottle from the shelf. "Great choice. This one has been getting a lot of positive feedback. I'm sure she'll love it."

Maya watches as the bottle is expertly wrapped, her excitement growing. She imagines Carina's reaction when she tries the new batch and feels a sense of satisfaction knowing she's bringing home something special.

As the bartender hands over the bottle, Maya takes it with a grateful smile. "Thank you. I'm looking forward to sharing this with her."

With the bottle securely in hand, Maya heads back to where Jack is waiting. "I've got the bottle ready to go. I think Carina will really appreciate this," she says, her excitement evident.

Jack grins. "That's great! I'm sure she'll love it. It's always nice to surprise someone with a little something special."

Maya nods, feeling content. "Absolutely. It's the perfect way to end a great evening."

They leave the distillery, Maya carrying the bottle with a sense of anticipation for the moment she can share it with Carina.

— — —

The following weekend, Carina excitedly asks Maya to accompany her to the local dog rescue to start looking at pets. Maya, feeling a bit hesitant but wanting to support Carina's interest, agrees with one condition. "Okay, but you have to promise we're just looking today and not adopting just yet. I want to take our time and make sure we're ready."

Carina grins, clearly thrilled. "I promise! I just want to see what's out there and get a sense of what kind of dog might be a good fit for us. It'll be fun!"

The two of them head to the rescue, where they're greeted by the cheerful staff and led to the area where the adoptable dogs are housed. The space is filled with the joyful noise of barking and playful interactions, and Carina's eyes light up with excitement.

As they walk through the rows of kennels, Carina stops to pet a few dogs, chatting with the volunteers about their personalities and needs. Maya observes, her initial reservations softening as she sees how much joy this experience brings Carina.

Carina stops in front of a playful golden retriever mix who wags its tail enthusiastically. "Look at this one! She's so sweet and full of energy. What do you think?"

Maya smiles, watching the interaction. "She does seem like a great dog. But remember, we're just getting a sense of things today. It's important to think about what will work best for our lifestyle."

Carina nods, though it's clear she's smitten. "I know. It's just hard not to fall for these adorable faces."

They continue to explore, meeting several dogs and learning about their backgrounds. Maya begins to appreciate the depth of Carina's desire to adopt a dog and understands how this could be a wonderful addition to their lives.

As Carina and Maya continue their visit at the local rescue, enjoying their interactions with the various dogs, a sudden commotion catches their attention. A volunteer rushes in carrying a dog who appears to be in distress. The dog, a medium-sized terrier mix, has a clearly injured leg, and it's evident that the situation is urgent.

Carina's eyes widen with concern as she sees the dog being gently placed on an examination table in the back room. She turns to Maya, her face reflecting her worry. "Oh no, that poor dog. I hope they can help her."

Maya nods, her own concern mirroring Carina's. "I'm sure they're doing everything they can. It's good that they have the resources to provide immediate care."

One of the rescue's staff members comes over to reassure them. "We just brought her in from an emergency call. We're going to get her checked out and see what's needed. She's been in quite a bit of pain, but we're hopeful we can get her the treatment she needs."

Carina looks toward the examination room, her concern palpable. "Can we do anything to help? Maybe make a donation or help with her care?"

The staff member appreciates the offer. "That's very kind of you. Donations are always welcome and help us cover the costs of medical care for situations like this. We're also always in need of volunteers for when we have emergencies."

Carina's eyes well up with tears as she watches the injured pup being carefully examined by the rescue staff. The sight of the dog in pain tugs at her heartstrings, and she's visibly shaken by the situation.

Maya, noticing Carina's distress, gently places a comforting hand on her arm. "Hey, it's going to be okay. They're doing everything they can for her."

Carina, struggling to keep her composure, turns to Maya with a tearful expression. "I want to help. We need to do something for this little one. Can you write a donation check? Please?"

Maya nods, her expression softening with empathy. "Of course, Carina. Let me handle it."

She pulls out her checkbook and writes a significant donation amount, ensuring it reflects their genuine desire to support the rescue's efforts. Once the check is completed, Maya adds a personal note at the bottom: "For the care of the injured pup and any future emergencies."

Maya then approaches one of the rescue staff members and hands them the check. "Please make sure this goes directly to helping the injured dog and any other pets in need. Also, here's my card. Feel free to contact me if there are any urgent needs in the future."

The staff member looks both surprised and grateful. "Thank you so much. This is incredibly generous. Your support means the world to us and to the animals we care for."

Carina, still emotional but relieved, takes Maya's hand. "Thank you for doing this. I just couldn't bear to see her in pain and not do anything."

Maya wraps an arm around Carina, offering her support. "It's okay. We've made a difference today, and we can continue to help in the future."

As they leave the rescue, Carina and Maya talk about their commitment to supporting the organization and how they can stay involved.

— — —

The day before Valentine's Day, Carina wakes up early with an unsettled stomach, feeling nauseous and weak. Her symptoms quickly escalate to include cramping and a general sense of malaise. She tries to get out of bed but finds it difficult to move without feeling faint and uncomfortable.

Maya, who had been getting ready for the day, immediately notices something is wrong when she sees Carina's distressed expression. "Hey, what's going on?" she asks with concern as she helps Carina sit up.

Carina groans softly, clutching her stomach. "I'm feeling really sick. I think I've got a stomach bug."

Maya helps Carina lie back down, tucking her in with extra blankets. "Let me take care of you. Just rest here for a bit."

Noticing the similarities between Carina's symptoms and what she experienced with the flu a few weeks ago, Maya asks with concern, "Do you think it might be the flu, like what I had a few weeks ago?"

Carina, her voice weak but thoughtful, replies, "I'm not sure. It could be, but it might just be a stomach bug. The symptoms are a bit different from what you had."

Maya nods, her brow furrowed with worry. "You might be right. I remember how tough it was for me with the flu, and I wouldn't want you to go through the same thing. Have you been feeling any other symptoms, like a fever or aches?"

Carina shakes her head slowly. "No fever or aches, just this awful nausea and stomach cramps. I hope it's just a bug and not something more serious."

Maya goes to the kitchen and prepares a simple, soothing spread of clear fluids like water, ginger ale, and herbal tea. She also gets some bland, easy-to-digest foods like crackers and toast, knowing that Carina might not have much of an appetite but should still have something light in her stomach.

Returning to the bedroom, Maya sets the tray down beside Carina and gently encourages her to try a small amount of water. "Take tiny sips if you can. It'll help keep you hydrated."

Maya remains by Carina's side, offering comfort and checking in frequently to make sure she's okay. She keeps the room calm and quiet, avoiding any strong smells or activities that might worsen Carina's nausea.

Throughout the day, Maya continues to care for Carina, bringing more fluids and easy foods if Carina feels up to eating. She also ensures the room is cool and comfortable, helping Carina with any needs and making sure she stays as comfortable as possible.

By the evening, Carina starts to feel a bit better, though she remains weak. Maya sits with her, holding her hand and offering gentle encouragement.

On the morning of Valentine's Day, Carina wakes up feeling no better than the previous day. Her stomach still feels unsettled, and she experiences persistent nausea and weakness. Maya, who has been up early preparing for the day, quickly notices that Carina hasn't improved.

Maya gently knocks on the bedroom door before entering. "Hey, how are you feeling today?" she asks softly, trying not to startle Carina.

Carina groans softly, turning her head on the pillow. "I still feel terrible. My stomach is so sore, and I'm so tired."

Maya sits beside her on the bed, her face etched with concern. "I'm sorry you're still feeling this way. We'll keep things low-key today. Let's focus on getting you comfortable and hydrated."

She helps Carina sit up slightly, arranging extra pillows behind her for support. Maya then goes to the kitchen and prepares a gentle breakfast: toast, crackers, and a light, soothing herbal tea. She brings it back to the bedroom, setting it down on the bedside table.

"Try to have a little something," Maya encourages, handing Carina a small piece of toast. "It might help settle your stomach a bit."

Carina takes a small bite, but her appetite is minimal. "I'm really sorry, Maya. I hate that we can't celebrate Valentine's Day like we planned."

Maya shakes her head, squeezing Carina's hand gently. "Don't worry about it. Your health is the most important thing right now. We'll have our celebration when you're feeling better. For now, let's focus on getting you well."

"How are you feeling now?" Maya asks softly later that morning, sitting beside Carina and brushing a stray lock of hair from her forehead.

Carina gives a faint smile, her voice weak but appreciative. "A little better, but still not great. Thanks for staying close."

Maya nods, giving Carina's hand a gentle squeeze. "I'm here for you. I'll be working nearby, so if you need anything, just let me know. I want to make sure you're as comfortable as possible."

Maya, determined to stay close to Carina while ensuring her work responsibilities are managed, decides to set up her home office in a space where she can easily attend to Carina's needs.

As Maya starts her work, she keeps a close eye on Carina, frequently checking in and offering to help with anything she might need. Whenever Carina needs something, whether it's a sip of water, a light snack, or just some reassurance, Maya is quick to respond.

Throughout the day, Maya balances her work tasks with caring for Carina. She participates in virtual meetings, handles emails, and completes her assignments, all while remaining attentive to Carina's well-being. She takes breaks as needed to ensure Carina is comfortable and to provide any additional care or support.

During lunch, Maya prepares a light meal that's easy on Carina's stomach and brings it to her bedside. "Try to eat a little more if you can," Maya says gently, offering the food with a comforting smile. "I know it's not much, but it might help you feel a bit better."

As the afternoon progresses, Maya continues to manage her work while checking in on Carina regularly. She adjusts the room's lighting and temperature as needed, ensures Carina stays hydrated, and provides any medications or comfort items.

In the evening, Maya makes a soothing cup of herbal tea for Carina and sets up a comfortable area where they can relax together. "We'll get through this," Maya says softly, her voice full of warmth and support. "I'm here for you, and we'll make sure you're feeling better soon."

Maya decides to cancel the plans she had meticulously arranged for Valentine's Day, including the special dinner she had booked with a sommelier. She feels a deep sense of disappointment but prioritizes Carina's well-being above all else.

With Carina starting to feel better but still recovering, Maya makes the decision to call the restaurant and explain the situation. She apologizes for the late cancellation, explaining that Carina has been unwell and that they need to keep the evening low-key at home.

"Hi, this is Maya Bishop," she begins, speaking to the restaurant's manager. "I'm really sorry to have to cancel our reservation for tonight. My partner has been quite sick, and we're going to need to stay in this evening. I understand that this is short notice, and I'm truly sorry for any inconvenience."

The manager expresses understanding and offers to assist in any way possible. Maya thanks them and asks to speak to the sommelier, who has been preparing a special selection of wines for the evening.

When she reaches the sommelier, Maya expresses her apologies once more. "I'm really sorry that we won't be able to make it tonight. I know you've put a lot of effort into curating a wonderful selection for us, and I truly appreciate it."

The sommelier appreciates Maya's thoughtfulness and offers to keep the wines for her to pick up later if she wishes. Maya insists on paying for the service regardless of the cancellation, recognizing the time and expertise that went into planning the evening.

"I want to make sure you're compensated for the work you've done. Please accept this as a token of my appreciation," Maya says, arranging for the payment to be processed. "Thank you for your understanding and for all the effort you put into our plans."

After finalizing the arrangements with the restaurant and sommelier, Maya returns to Carina, who is resting comfortably on the couch. She feels a mix of relief and sadness, knowing that while their Valentine's plans have been altered, the most important thing is taking care of Carina.

Maya settles back on the couch with Carina, placing a soft kiss on her forehead. "I'm sorry we couldn't have the special night we planned. But I want you to know that you're my priority. We'll make up for it when you're feeling better."

As night falls, Maya remains attentive to Carina, working quietly while staying available to address any of her needs. Her dedication to both her work and her partner's recovery highlights her commitment and care, ensuring that Carina feels supported and loved throughout her illness.

By dinner time, Carina starts to feel significantly better. Maya, who has been keeping a close eye on her all day, notices the improvement with relief. Carina's color has returned to normal, and she seems more energetic.

As Maya prepares a simple, comforting dinner for them, she brings Carina a light meal that's easy on her stomach, including some homemade soup, toast, and a glass of ginger ale. "I'm so glad you're feeling better," Maya says as she sets the table. "You had me worried for a bit there."

Carina smiles weakly but gratefully. "Thank you for everything today. I don't think I could have gotten through this without your support."

Maya sits down beside her, serving the meal and making sure Carina is comfortable. "You don't have to thank me. I'm just glad to see you feeling better. We'll keep it low-key tonight, just the two of us. How about we watch a movie after dinner?"