LAUREN'S POV

“Alright then, we’ll be taking our leave.” Roman stood, voice even and businesslike, as we both rose to our feet. I wrapped my fingers around the laptop Jeff had passed to me and carried it at my side, the machine a warm, solid weight that felt steadier than my stomach.

Jeff extended a hand and Roman shook it. “Thanks for the help,” Roman said, earnest. There was no performance in it just a quiet appreciation that made my throat lift with gratitude for the man who’d ...