Chapter 7

Vivian Lancaster's smile froze on her face, her fingertips trembling slightly.

"Say that again."

"You wanted to end things. I'm letting you go."

My voice was eerily calm.

I expected her to look relieved. But her reaction was unexpected—her almond-shaped eyes widened in shock, even flashing with anger.

"Ryan Gallagher! Over something this trivial?" Her voice rose sharply.

I frowned in confusion.

Wasn’t this the outcome she wanted?

Ethan Winslow chose that moment to interject. "Ms. Lancaster, since Ryan is the one who—"

"Get out!" Vivian suddenly snapped.

Ethan paled like a startled rabbit. Realizing her outburst, Vivian softened her tone. "Sorry... Wait for me outside."

Once the door closed, her gaze dropped to my feet.

"You're hurt?" Her voice turned gentle. "Let me get the first aid kit."

Again.

Every time things got real, she deflected with concern. It used to melt my heart. Now, it just felt pathetic.

"Where are the bandages?" She rummaged through the shelf, then paused. "Why is your room empty?"

"Sold the apartment." My tone was flat. "Remember to move out tomorrow."

She stiffened, then let out a cold laugh. "My name's on the deed. You can't sell it."

I pulled a document from the desk. "Check the last page. You signed the authorization."

"The night Ethan got a DUI. You signed it yourself."

Her fingers clenched, the paper crumpling with a sharp, brittle sound.