CHAPTER 18

Sienna walked out of Velvet Noir, the cool night air brushing against her skin as the last few employees locked up behind her. The city was quieter at this hour, with only the occasional sound of distant cars and the flickering glow of streetlights illuminating the damp pavement.

As usual, Damian walked beside her. Their steps were synchronized, a silent habit they had formed. Normally, she would have fallen into easy conversation with him, but tonight, her thoughts were heavy.

She needed space. She needed to be alone.

When they reached their apartment building, Sienna slowed her steps and turned to face him.

"I think I’ll sleep in my apartment tonight," she said, her voice even.

Damian’s brow furrowed, his sharp eyes scanning her face as if searching for something. "Why?"

She shrugged. "No reason. I just feel like it."

His gaze darkened with something unreadable. "Is everything okay?"

She forced a small smile. "Yeah. I’m fine."

He didn’t believe her.