Page 176

Well… his memory.

Those coffee-colored eyes. That intense expression that makes me feel things I have no business feeling.

And that mouth.

My stomach tightens.

One kiss, and I’m a complete disaster.

I grip the sink and glare at my reflection.

“You’re in shark-infested waters, Artemis.”

And judging by the pillowcase, so is my dignity.

After brushing my teeth and finishing my skincare routine, I hear a loud buzz from the bedroom.

I freeze, then hurry back to grab my phone.

For the first time in days, the signal bars are back.

Instantly notifications flood my screen. Messages, emails, missed calls, news alerts, calendar reminders, social media updates, voicemails, group chats, and work notifications. Six hundred and forty-two disasters, all demanding my attention.

I stare at the screen and frown.

Something is off.

I know I should feel relieved. Because now everything can return to normal, and I can leave.

So why does the thought feel wrong?

Going home should feel like getting oxygen after a week underwater. My schedule, my penthouse, my work, my familiar life—all waiting for me.

Instead, something ugly twists in my chest.

My phone buzzes again.

STEVIE: DO YOU APPROVE OF HIM?

I lock my phone immediately.

No.

I’m not having that conversation. Not today.

Let the traitor suffer a little longer.

As I’m reading a text from Dad, someone knocks on the door.

“Come in.”

Mika steps inside, carrying a mug of coffee and a glass of water. She offers me the water, and I take it.

“Morning.”

I take a sip. “Debatable.”

Mika snorts and walks toward the window. “The roads are opening.”