JULIA’S POV

I swipe at my face with the back of my hand, furious at the tears I’ve let fall. My palms are damp, my eyes burn, but I force myself to straighten up. I will not let him see me break. Not him. Not after everything.

If he walks in and sees me like this, it’s over. I’ll look like a fool, like some lovesick idiot who forgot the terms of her own contract.

This wasn't supposed to happen.

This wasn't how I'm supposed to feel.

The door opens.

Jerome ...