Ava barely slept that night. Her body still ached, her heat lingering far longer than it should have. Every time she closed her eyes, she saw Damon’s face—his sharp gaze, his growing suspicion, the way he had refused to back down.
By the time morning arrived, exhaustion clung to her like a second skin. She forced herself to get ready, ignoring the residual heat humming beneath her skin. A cold shower helped, but only just. She knew today would be difficult. She had to face Damon and convince him that nothing was wrong.
He can’t know. He can’t ever know.
By the time she arrived at the office, she had perfected her mask. Shoulders squared, expression neutral, steps even.
'Just act normal.'
But the moment she stepped inside, she knew something was off.
People were whispering in hushed
