I thought of Sable.
She used to fill my entire world.
So why did it feel like she didn’t really want me here?
I felt Ash watching me while he ran. His eyes were usually on me in one shape or form. Sweat dripped over my brow, and I wished I could strip the gloves from my hand. That I could wear shorts or a dress without fear.
I thought of that morning. The way Ash had touched me.
Is it possible?
Could I ever have a normal life?
The thought was strong, bright and unrepentant.
Could I do more than touch?
Would I even dare?
In the middle of the track, Dev had stripped down to just shorts and a black, skin-tight workout shirt. Sunlight caught on his skin as he lifted, muscles flexing with controlled precision. For the first time since I’d known him, he wasn’t hiding behind tailored suits or sharp edges.
He was just… Dev.
His biceps strained as he hauled the weighted bar up, sweat already glistening along his arms and collarbone. The sun was hot against my skin — grounding, real.
I slowed without meaning to, my feet stuttering on the track as my attention caught.
I hesitated.
And stared — before I could stop myself.
He was beautiful in the most controlled, deliberate way. His black hair curled at the nape of his neck, his shirt pulled tight across straining muscle.
Something warm pooled low in my stomach before I could stop it. I felt hot in a way that had nothing to do with the sun.
Ash chose that moment to pass me again, then slowed to a stop at my side.
He followed my gaze and chuckled.
“Show off,” he muttered.
At the sound, Dev startled — looking directly at me in surprise. His eyes widened… then softened, just a fraction.
Heat flamed across my cheeks. I snapped my gaze away.
“Oh my god,” I whispered.
Ash snickered and pressed lightly at the small of my back.
“Keep going, pervert.”
I felt Dev’s eyes on me as I ran.
Ash stayed by my side.
When we stopped to take a break, he sat with me on the grass.
“Are you okay?”
