Riley's POV
"Right." Caleb's response cuts through the air like a blade. He stands abruptly, his movements sharp and deliberate as he reaches for his shoes. Each step toward the door feels like a small betrayal. "I need to grab some work materials. I'll be back." The words are clipped, professional almost, as if we're strangers conducting business.
My eyes drift back to the scattered papers on my desk. "You don't need to come back." The statement hangs between us, heavier than I intended.
He pauses at the threshold, his shoulders tense. "I want to make sure you're safe. Even if you're planning to abandon us a year ahead of schedule." The door closes behind him before I can formulate a response, leaving me alone with the echo of his disappointment.
