The building was quieter after dark. The usual noise of printers, phones, and heels on marble floors had faded into stillness. Only a few scattered lights glowed softly, leaving long shadows down the hallway. Jade’s heartbeat seemed to echo against the silence as she stared at the clock on her desk.

It was almost ten. Everyone had gone home hours ago. Except her.

And him.

Nathan’s office light was still on. She could see the faint golden strip under his door. He hadn’t said anything to ...