The rest of Monday blurred into a haze. Ava forced herself to keep her eyes glued to her screen, ignoring the weight of Ethan’s presence seeping through the glass wall of his office. She didn’t breathe freely until she was finally home that night, curled on her couch with takeout she barely tasted.
Lily’s text came through just as she set the carton down.
How was work? Any more brooding stares from your boss?
Ava rolled her eyes but typed back anyway. Don’t start.
Fine, fine. But you should know—Daniel asked about you today. He’s interested.
Her chest tightened. Daniel. Safe, kind, uncomplicated Daniel. She should’ve felt relief. Instead, her thoughts spiraled back to Ethan’s words, his hands, his relentless gaze.
She shoved the phone away, determined not to drown in him anymore.
Th
