[Elena's POV]

"Just the bug," I said, keeping my back to the hallway. "It'll pass."

Noah didn't look convinced, but he let it go. His fingers slid down my arm and caught my wrist. "Come here."

I let him pull me into the study. The door clicked shut behind us.

Sunlight cut across the heavy oak desk, catching on the silver pen he always twirled when he was thinking.

I needed an excuse, fast.

"I came for inspiration," I said, keeping my tone light. "Thought I'd sketch something for you. Maybe a ...