The week had been a dream and a nightmare all at once. Adrian could almost trick himself into believing he was simply dating Evan—going on walks, grabbing takeout, sitting side by side in quiet spaces where conversation was optional. For the first time in weeks, he’d been able to laugh without flinching, to sit without feeling the walls close in.But the cracks were there, waiting beneath the surface. And on Monday, they began to show.---It started in the office. Adrian was standing by the copier, half-focused on the machine as it spat out reports, when a coworker approached. Mark, from finance—tall, friendly, always quick with a joke.“Hey, Adrian. You got plans tonight? A few of us are grabbing drinks at that new bar on 5th. You should come.”Adrian smiled faintly. “Thanks, but I think I’ll pass. I’ve got—”“Got what?” The voice was smooth, dangerously calm.Adrian stiffened. Evan was standing a few feet away, leaning casually against the wall as if he belonged there. No one else
Last Updated : 2025-08-31 Read more