VANESSA
I was halfway through checking Fabian's math homework when I felt it—the telltale prickle at the base of my neck that signaled Roman's approach. Even before I heard his footsteps in the hallway, my body had already tensed in anticipation.
"You missed this one, sweetie," I said to Fabian, tapping an equation with my finger and willing my voice to remain steady. "Try again."
While Fabian erased his work, I glanced at the doorway. Roman stood there, his imposing frame filling the space. The easy warmth he'd shown on the basketball court had vanished completely, replaced by something cold and calculating that made my wolf bristle.
"Ms. West," he said formally. "We need to discuss our situation in private."
I smoothed Fabian's hair. "Finish these last few problems, then shower before dinner, okay?"
Fabian looked up, his eyes darting between us. "Are you leaving soon, Alpha Vance?"
Something flickered across Roman's face—so brief I almost missed it. Pain? Longing?