FINN’S TRUTHThe tent felt smaller after Demetrius left. The air was stale, and the shadows in the corners seemed to be mocking me. I stayed under the covers for a long time, staring at the spot where he had stood. My lips still felt swollen, a stinging reminder of the moment I had reached for him and he had pushed me away.

A responsibility. That’s what he called me. Not a woman. Not even a friend. Just a job he had to do.

I heard the tent flap move again. I squeezed my eyes shut, my heart ...