EMBER’S POV

One of them was “I love you.” I remember the way his eyes found mine across the table when that card was read. The certainty in his expression.

“No,” I say quickly. “I don’t want to know.”

“Why not?”

“Because I’m not ready for whatever you want to say, and I’m not sure I want to hear it.” I take a breath, trying to steady myself. “I don’t have space in my life for one more complication, Rafael. Whatever you think exists between us, whatever hope you’re holding onto, I need you to let it go. Please, I beg you. There’s no future for us. I’m not available,...