Lorien POV
“You brought me pie?” he repeated slowly, closing his laptop with deliberate care like he wanted me to have his full attention. The small, unexpected gesture made something warm flutter in my chest. I bit down on my lower lip as I looked away, opening the box to reveal the pie nestled inside.
I had to remind myself again that no matter how kind he seemed, no matter how intoxicating his kisses felt, it meant absolutely nothing. And yet, my pulse still quickened when I met his sharp green eyes.
“I was just about to eat lunch,” Auren said as I hovered uncertainly over the pie, suddenly realizing I hadn’t thought to bring a knife. I didn’t want to break the fragile moment by running downstairs, so I grabbed one of the forks instead and forced a small smile. “Then I guess I’ve got
