LOGINSo when my friends corner me between classes, wide-eyed, whispering, ready to dramatize the bandage on my cheek, I give them a version of the truth. Not the real truth, but something close enough.“My step-sister had a meltdown,” I say with a shrug, letting my tone go breezy. “It’s pretty sad, but s
Dominic POVDominic watches Aurora from across the living room, jaw tight, hands buried in his pockets because if he doesn’t restrain them, he’ll march across the room, pick her up, and lock her somewhere safe where he can see her.Instinct yanks at him like a physical tug. Keep her close, keep her
Aurora POVThe restaurant is elegant with warm lighting, velvet-curtained windows, the low hum of money and prestige rolling off every polished surface.It’s our one-month anniversary. A month of waking up tangled in Dominic’s arms, a month of being unexpectedly happy in a life I never pictured for
“When I first started classes,” I begin, “I met a professor who was smart and charismatic, and everyone around me had a crush on him.”Dominic’s expression darkens at that, but he stays silent. Waiting.“He took an interest in me, mostly because he’d seen a photo from our wedding,” I continue quickl
Dominic POVDominic listens in tight-lipped silence as Romero relays Gianna’s latest report.Camilla is still scheming,The information shouldn’t surprise him but something in Romero’s tone confirms it’s worse than before. More desperate. More reckless.He studies Romero’s face the way he would any
I take a slow breath and gather my courage and meet Hale’s gaze head-on.“Professor, I’ll request it again, and I think it’s fair.” My voice is steady, which surprises me. “Please don’t display my sculpture on its own. If you put it out, show it with the others. Don’t make it seem like I’m being sin







