The photo shoot took exactly two hours, just as she was promised. Lauren moved through the different setups with the lead actor, moody lighting against exposed brick, softer shots with gauzy fabric, dramatic poses that the creative director guided her through with enthusiasm.

She was good at this part. The performing. The becoming someone else for the camera. It was easier than being herself right now, easier than thinking about Liam sitting in that diner, planning God knew what.

Wyatt never ...