(Audrey's POV)
I stared at the ceiling, unable to sleep with Arthur Moonstone sprawled on my couch. The soft buzz of my phone pulled my attention away from my troubled thoughts.
"Still awake?" Sarah's voice came through, hushed but playful.
"How did you know?" I whispered, moving further into the kitchen.
"Birthday jitters? Or is it because your ex-mate won't leave you alone?" There was a knowing tone in her voice that made me sigh.
"He's passed out on my couch," I admitted reluctantly. "Showed up drunk and practically collapsed."
Sarah's laugh was soft but tinged with concern. "Want me to come over and help you kick him out?"
"No, it's fine. I'll handle it in the morning." I glanced back at Arthur's sleeping form. "He's just... complicated."
"Complicated is putting it mildly," Sarah replied. "Don't let him worm his way back in, Audrey. You've worked too hard for your freedom."
After we hung up, I tiptoed back to check on Arthur, only to find his eyes open, watching me with an
