Maddy's POV
The room felt smaller all of a sudden — the air heavy with everything unsaid.
I wanted to scream, to cry, to hide. But instead, I just sat there, watching Nate pace like a storm trapped inside a suit.
A war. That's what he called it.
And somehow, I was both the weapon and the target.
"Nate…" My voice came out barely above a whisper. "I don't want to be part of this war. I just wanted a job. A second chance. I didn't sign up for—"
"For being the scapegoat of other people's insecurities?" he finished sharply, turning to face me. His eyes softened when he saw my expression. "You didn't. And I'm sorry, Maddy. You deserve better than this."
"Sorry doesn't fix anything," I said quietly, hating how small my voice sounded.
"I know." He took a step closer, then
