Later that night, Ethan found himself alone in his office, replaying the day in his mind. Lena's laughter, her teasing, the way she had looked at him… it haunted him.
He hated that he was thinking about her. He hated that he wanted her. But more than that, he hated realizing he didn't just want her physically—he wanted her trust, her attention, her heart.
And then she appeared in the doorway.
"I forgot my notes," she said casually.
Ethan leaned against the desk, watching her. "You keep finding ways to appear in my office," he said, half amused, half warning.
She smirked, unbothered by his tone. "I'm efficient," she replied.
Their eyes locked, and for the first time, Ethan allowed himself to wonder what it would be like to let her in completely. Vulnerability was dangerous—but he couldn't stop the pull she had over him.