FORTY-FIVE

KIERA’S POV

I woke up feeling surprisingly rejuvenated. Apparently, a solid night’s sleep does wonders for the soul. The anger I was nursing over Gabriel had dulled to a mild irritation, like a mosquito bite.

I decided right then, no more expectations. I’d step up as the fake fiancé he needed—no strings, no complications. But then there was Damien. His confession lingered like a sweet poison in my mind, his desires, pulling me like a tide. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t drawn to him, but allowing myself to trust his words and open my heart to him? That would take more than just words, especially after what he did.

Just as I finished up in the bathroom, my phone buzzed, and a message from Gabriel flashed on the screen.

[Please get dressed. Marco's waiting to bring you to the office]

Oh, great! He still thinks I’m fuming. Why else would he send Marco instead of picking me up himself? Classic Gabriel, always dodging the bullet. I rolled my eyes, shaking my head as I dropped my phone.

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