CHAPTER 13

**Jessica’s POV**

The moment I spotted Nathan and Parrish together, my stomach clenched. Nathan’s gaze flicked toward me, sensing my presence, and his expression hardened before he forced a smile. The air was thick with tension as I approached, both of them watching me, and it took every ounce of strength not to let my eyes linger on Parrish. His gaze was magnetic, trying to pull me in, but I resisted. I couldn’t let myself fall into his orbit again—not now, not ever.

“I see you’ve met Parrish Holmes—my boss,” I said, my voice shaky as I wiped my sweaty palms on my dress. I tried to sound professional, to keep the mood light, praying Nathan wouldn’t see through my nervousness. Did he know? Could he tell that Parrish was the one who had shattered me before I met him?

“Parrish Holmes?” Nathan repeated, his eyes narrowing as they flicked between us. Then his gaze locked on mine. “You didn’t mention your ex is now your boss.”

“I—uh—I didn’t think it was relevant,” I stammered, fighting fo