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“At this point, we can’t even work remotely. The servers were destroyed.”

My heart sinks. “I’m so sorry to hear that.”

“I wish I had better news. I’ll keep you updated.”

“Thanks. I appreciate it.”

“Well... enjoy your unexpected vacation.”

Vacation. Right.This is anything but.

I force a fake laugh and then end the call.

The publishing job I worked so hard for seems like a distant dream. And for the first time, I fear that it’s about to vanish.

And then what will I do?

Great. Can this day get any worse?

I start limping toward the table when I see it. Tabitha is at the booth, talking and laughing with Daltyn. He has a smile on his face.

He doesn’t see me.

I whirl around, heading to the bathroom. I just need tocry for a few minutes. Then I’ll go back there and pretend not to be miserable.

By the time I return to the table, a plate of pancakes and bacon is waiting for me. I barely have an appetite at this point, but I couldn’t hide out in the bathroom forever. Daltyn would’ve probably sent Tabitha after me, and I’m in no mood to go to jail for punching that flirty bitch in the mouth.

I slide into my seat, flashing a fake smile at Daltyn. My eyes drop to my food. “Looks good.”

“Are you okay?”

I grip my fork harder than necessary. “Fine.”

He blows out a breath. “I’m sorry about?—”

“No worries,” I cut in, my voice fake with a cheeriness I don’t feel. “Let’s just eat.”

Silence falls over the table.

I barely taste the food but go through the motions anyway.

“The phone call.” Daltyn’s voice causes me to jolt. “Who was it?”

I look up at him. “Work.”

“Oh. Are you able to work remotely?”

I wish I’d never told him that.

I shake my head. “Not yet. My boss said he’ll keep me posted.”

He stares at me. “He must’ve said more. You were gone for eleven minutes.”

I still, my fork halfway to my mouth.

“That’s... oddly specific.”

He just stares at me.