~LAUREN’S POV~

The water was warm, almost burning, but I didn’t mind. I let it rise around me, the heat sinking into my skin, easing the tension in my muscles.

The effect of tonight, of everything, felt lighter in the water.

Steam curled around me, blurring the edges of the dimly lit bathroom. The villa was quiet—too quiet.

It left too much space for my thoughts, for the replay of gunshots and blood and Alexandro’s voice telling me to leave.

I leaned my head back against the tub’s edge, breathing out slowly, my body finally beginning to relax.

Until I felt it.

The weight of a stare.

My lashes fluttered...