Chapter 37
Derek’s POV
Alex texted me the next morning while I was still getting dressed.
Coffee after class? I feel like we barely talked yesterday. My treat.
I stared at the message for a long time.
Part of me wanted to say no. Marcus’s words from last night still sat heavy in my head, the way he had f****d me against the kitchen counter, the low growl when he told me I belonged to him.
The other part of me needed the break. I needed something that felt normal.
I typed back. Okay. Usual place.
The café was quieter than the day before. The smell of espresso and warm bread filled the small space.
Alex was already at the corner table when I walked in, two cups waiting.
He smiled when he saw me, the kind of easy smile that made the guilt twist harder in my chest.
“Hey,” he sai
