*Jane*

“Uh, Jane, are you okay?”

I need to respond, but I’m stunned.

“Hmm-mm. All good,” I finally say, trying hard for brevity, but I don’t even manage to convince myself. Noah gives me a look that makes me feel embarrassed that I even thought I could try and fool him. My shoulders sag, the facade slipping off my face as I give him a defeated smile.

“I just wasn’t expecting that.” I shake my ...