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As Ryan closed the door behind him, the office fell silent. Alex's eyes met mine, and for a brief instant, I saw something flicker in their depths that appeared remarkably like jealousy. But before I could process anything, he spoke in a low and intense tone. "Sophie Marie McDermott, we need to discuss what is really going on here."

My heart skipped a beat. What did he mean? And why did he call me by my full name? More importantly, was I ready for whatever was coming next?

I swallowed hard, trying to maintain my composure. "What do you mean?"

He leaned back in his chair, his gaze never...