Except when I looked at Roman’s office and felt the flutter in my belly, remembering the way each tiny droplet of water had fallen down his rock-hard abdomen, I knew.

Everything had happened between us.

Everything had changed.

And I wasn’t sure how to process that, but for now, I was at work. So, that was what I’d do.

Over the past several weeks, Roman and I had figured out how to work together like a well-oiled machine. I knew his schedule, understood his moods, could anticipate changes, and could navigate through complications.

I wonder if Bethany can do all of that, I thought to myself as I finished up a few things, my mind still revolving around our conversation yesterday regarding jobs.

Roman wasn’t wrong. I didn’t want to work as an assistant for the rest of my life. Working my ass off in college, studying the French Revolution and Greek culture, when everyone else had been at fraternity parties wasn’t just so I could fail now.

I just didn’t know where to start.

Back home, I’d had plenty of opportunities to advance. Through professor recommendations, I could have had my pick of graduate programs or summer internships.

But New York was always the plan.

I’d stuck to the plan.

Rather than intern at the Nebraska Historical Society for a few months, I had gone home and babysat for a while, saving up enough cash to pay for moving expenses and my share of the rent.

Had I blown my chances at a career already?

“You look pensive.”

I glanced up from my blank computer screen to find Lauren standing in front on me. She was dressed sharply, as usual, in tight-fitting black pants and a low-cut blouse. She was the epitome of everything Tyler had wanted me to be—sophisticated, polished, and charming.

When I’d arrived, he’d wanted arm candy—someone he could bring along to functions when the occasion called for it—more than an actual girlfriend. He might not have realized that was what he was doing, but his reaching for the top had swallowed him whole.

“Just thinking, I guess.” I shrugged, leaning back. I awkwardly rubbed my hands on my own black pants.

Roman had dropped me off at my place this morning. I’d had just long enough to change. Not wanting to keep him waiting, I’d grabbed the first outfit I saw.

Compared to Lauren, I deeply regretted that decision. I’d never been much of a fashionista. From the limited clothing options of coming from a small town, I’d just taken what I could find, which was why I was currently sporting a sweater I’d owned since my senior year in high school when bright colors were still in.