Kate's POV

I sat back in the chair, trying to gather my thoughts. Erlan's presence, the conversation with Darwis, and the confrontation with Kayra all replayed in my head. I have to stay strong and focused, both for myself and for my future with Erlan.

Because living with people who love us is better than living with people we love but don't love us.

When I tried to refocus on my work, my cell phone rang. Message from Erlan, "Is everything okay, Kate? You seemed a little disturbed earlier."

I smiled faintly and typed a reply, "Yeah, just a little disturbance at the office. Thanks for asking. Can we talk...