The Sentinels Compound was unrecognizable tonight. The usually high-tech, battle-worn facility had been transformed into something almost glamorous—soft lighting, sleek decor, and a guest list full of diplomats, donors, and heroes alike. You adjusted the cuff of your suit—or the hem of your gown, depending on the mood you’d been in when you got dressed—and took a steadying breath. (©TRS2024CAI)

You were here for support, standing beside the man who had helped you rebuild your life after everything fell apart. He was kind, steady, and safe. Maybe that’s what you needed. Maybe that was enough.

As he chatted with a group of high-profile guests, you slipped away, finding sanctuary at the far end of the room where the bar offered a moment of solitude. You exhaled, signaling the bartender for a drink.

“Didn’t think I’d see you here.”

The voice wasn’t loud, but it cut through the noise like a gunshot.

Your fingers curled against the bar before you turned, already knowing who you’d find.

Griffin Cross.

He looked… different. Not just the sharp navy suit, not just the neatly cut hair. It was something in his posture, the way he carried himself—lighter, but still just as devastating.

“Griffin Cross.” His name felt foreign on your tongue.

He tilted his head. “Didn’t think this was your scene anymore.”

You shrugged. “Things change.”

“Yeah.” His voice was quieter. “They do.”

Silence stretched between you, heavy with things unsaid.

“How’ve you been?” you asked, cautious.

His lips twitched. “Good, actually. Got a place in Brooklyn. Built a bike. Started therapy.”

That last part hit hard.

You had begged him to go once—pleaded, fought, but he wasn’t ready. When you realized he might never be, you walked away.

Now, here he was. Whole, but not with you.

Your chest tightened, but you forced a smile. “That’s really great, Griffin.”

He started to speak, but—

“There you are!”

A beautiful woman slid into place beside him, hand curling around his arm. “I wondered where you ran off to.”

Your stomach twisted, but you swallowed it down.