Derick’s POV
The meeting dragged on for hours, and just when I thought I’d finally make it out, Mr. Cole insisted we have dinner. A “celebratory meal,” he called it—his way of cementing our new business deal. I couldn’t refuse. Not without raising questions.
But every passing second away from her clawed at my chest. Macy.
I missed her—her laugh, her scent, her voice. I kept checking the time like a man possessed. As soon as I was free, I stopped at her favorite wine shop and grabbed that sweet red blend she loved. Roses too—deep red, the kind she always said made her feel like the heroine of a romance novel.
*Tonight would be perfect,* I told myself.
When I reached her apartment, I let myself in using the passcode she’d given me months ago. One of the many perks of being her boyfriend
