“Good morning, baby…” Terrence greeted me with a smile as he stepped into the dining area, still carrying the fresh scent of his shower and the faint trace of his cologne—like he had deliberately decided to ruin my morning peace.

I forced a smile and greeted him back, quickly looking away.

“Good morning, baby.”

I set the bacon, ham, and eggs I had cooked onto the table. Breakfast was complete now. He was the only thing missing earlier. I pulled out a chair and adjusted my seat, ...