Tessa woke up first. The room was still grey with early light. She stirred. Her lashes fluttered, her eyes swollen and hot from hours of crying she’d never admit to.

For a moment, she forgot where she was.

Then she turned — and saw him.

Roman lay beside her, half-turned toward her, his arm still stretched where he’d been holding her. His breathing was slow, heavy, exhausted in a way she’d only ever seen in men who’d given too much of themselves for too long.

His hair was messy, his face drawn, dark circles sitting heavy under his eyes.

He looked worn down.

He looked like he’d fought the whole...