Eleanor’s POV

“You don’t have to stay for this part.”

My voice cracked on the words. I was on the bathroom floor of the suite, back against the cold marble, knees pulled up, the board call still echoing in my head like a blade. They had used phrases like “optics,” “stability,” and “questionable judgment” while smiling through the screen. I had hung up, walked straight into the bathroom, and stopped being able to breathe properly.

Marcus didn’t answer from the doorway. He just stepped inside, closed the door, and sat on the edge of the tub opposite me. Still in the black suit. Still carrying the weapon. Still looking at...