~LAUREN’S POV~

I hated being late. Rosette was going to have my head for this. Just three days before the big break, I was already imagining the lecture waiting for me at work.

I couldn’t wait to finish this project and head home for Christmas. Although I knew my family would be disappointed I’d be coming home alone, it was for the best.

The sharp ding of the bell over the café counter pulled me out of my thoughts.

“Miss, your cappuccino is ready,” the barista called with a bright smile.

“Thank God,” I murmured under my breath, weaving through the small crowd to the counter.

“One cream-filled cappuccino,” she...