~LAUREN’S POV~

Pain.

A deep, throbbing, merciless pain pounds inside my skull, making it nearly impossible to pry my eyes open. But I do—slowly, hesitantly—blinking against the soft light filtering through sheer white curtains.

I stare at the ceiling above me.

Cream and gold. A chandelier that probably costs more than my rent. Furniture so pristine it looks untouched like it belongs in a museum instead of a home.

This isn’t my apartment.

This is… “Oh, God.” My voice is barely a whisper as last night slams into me like a freight train.

The bar. Rosette’s forced team night out. The drinks. The endless drinks. Ethan. His unexpected defense. And...