Wednesday morning arrived with strange energy—the city caught between regular routine and impending celebration, everyone aware that tonight the world would reset to a new year.
Luca woke to find Noel already up, sitting on the edge of the bed lacing his shoes.
"What time is it?" Luca asked, voice still thick with sleep.
"Seven. You can sleep a little longer if you want."
"No, I'm up." Luca pushed himself into a sitting position, running hands through his hair. "Big day?"
"Just normal work. But everyone's distracted." Noel finished with his shoes, standing. "The whole office has New Year's Eve energy."
"Is that a thing?"
"Apparently."
By the time they left the apartment, it was clear Noel was right—the city felt different.
More people smiling at strangers, shop windows displaying "Happy New Year" signs, the collective anticipation of something ending and something beginning.
