“Are you sure you’re okay?” Roman asked for what felt like the hundredth time, his eyes fixed on the bruises Lucas had inflicted on her hand.

They were sitting in Roman’s car.

“I’m sure,” Serena said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Roman ignored her this time. He opened his storage compartment and pulled out a white tube of ointment.

Serena tried to withdraw her hand, but Roman only tightened his grip gently. He carefully applied the cream to the affected area.

“All done,” he said softly, then brought her hand to his lips and placed a gentle kiss on her knuckles.

Serena immediately pulled her hand back, turning her...