Amara.
I couldn't sleep when I tried to.
Every time I closed my eyes, I saw him. The way he stood in the doorway last night, silent, commanding.
And that man’s face, the way all color drained from it the moment he realized I was with Lucien. I have never seen a man so scared for his life. I don’t know why that image won’t leave me.
Lucien’s jacket was still draped across the back of the chair, the faint scent of him woven into the fabric.
I sat there for a long time, staring at it like it might give me answers.
---
Work felt different the next morning.
The building was quieter than usual, though no one said why. The staff spoke in hushed tones. Even the lights seemed dimmer, as if the day itself was holding its breath.
Lucien wasn’t there.
His office door stayed closed, the blin
