SONG PLAY: 28 by Ruthie B (Dawn Lewis)

~LAUREN’S POV~

“Can we talk?”

I didn’t look up right away. I knew that voice. I could pick it out in a room full of demons. Patrick.

Slowly, I lifted my gaze from my laptop, arching one brow with all the grace of a woman who used to care, but now only keeps receipts.

Vanessa paused mid-flirt on her call, eyes darting between us with that ‘what-the-hell-is-this’ look. I ignored her.

Instead, I flicked my gaze to Luca.

He was already moving, jaw set, posture rigid, like he was seconds away from turning Patrick into a lesson. I gave a quick shake...