NICOLE

I'm the first to look away, and by the time I return to my senses, Sebastian is several feet in front of me, and he hasn't even noticed that I stayed behind.

Shame colors my cheeks because I've allowed myself to react to Roman's presence, and of course, he would've noticed that. How embarrassing.

My life's been reduced to a humiliation ritual since I saw Roman that night.

And it hasn't been the same since. God, when will I catch a break?

I rejoin Sebastian's side and he says ...