[PEARL]
A knot of fear twisted in my stomach as Zach buzzed me into his office. What other romantic preparation does he require I do this time, I thought. I could feel the strained atmosphere of seriousness around Zach the moment I got in.
"Miss Collins," he began, his voice clipped, "there's something I need to discuss." He gestured to a seat across from his imposing rosewood desk. My fingers tapped nervously on the armrest as I settled in.
"I'm getting married."
The words hit me like a physical blow. Married? Zach, the man whose life had been a meticulous routine, the man who scoffed at the mention of commitment, was getting married?
A cold wave washed over me, stealing the warmth from the room.
"Congratulations," I managed, forcing a smile that felt strained even to my own ears
