Nathaniel’s POV
Naomi and I had been growing closer—too close, if I were honest with myself. She was doing well in her role, proving herself capable and sharp. But I kept my heart guarded. After all, she was my mate, and that alone was dangerous enough. Yet, her history as the one who made my life hell during high school was never far from my mind. No matter how much progress we seemed to make, it always hovered there, a reminder that trusting her could come at a cost.
That cost came due today.
Victoria burst into my office, her face pale and trembling as she clutched a folder to her chest. “Nathaniel, we have a problem,” she said, her voice quivering with urgency.
I leaned back in my chair, giving her my full attention. “What’s wrong?”
“It’s Naomi,” she said, dropping the folder onto
