The door clicked shut behind Jasmine, the sound echoing in the quiet apartment. She kicked off her shoes, the thud a welcome release from the day's weight. Exhaustion pulled at her, a heavy cloak she couldn't seem to shake. She let herself fall onto the sofa, sinking into its plush embrace. The cushions swallowed her whole, a temporary haven from the turmoil in her mind.
Liam Vanderbilt. His name was a constant hum in her thoughts, a low, persistent drone that wouldn't let her rest. She'd been avoiding him at work, pretending to be busy, ignoring his attempts at conversation. It was easier that way, keeping the distance, pretending that the charade of their relationship was real. But the reality was a bitter pill she couldn't swallow. She was just a pawn in his game, a temporary girlfrien
