“Hey, I’m sorry about that,” he voiced to break the stilted silence. “That was inconsiderate of me.”

She glanced at him in confusion. What was he apologizing for? That’s when she read the pained look in his eyes, and she wanted to do nothing but reach out and console him. She had forgotten all about Amber being pregnant. No wonder he felt bad for bringing her up during her bereavement. Truth of the matter was, that wasn’t what bothered her at all. But rather than correct him, Deven was just satisfied he wouldn’t feel obligated to bring her up again.

Paul pulled up to the curb in front of Deven’s apartment building and got out to open her door. She didn’t necessarily need his assistance, but it felt nice when he circled his arm around her waist and held her close, bracing against her weight. Her stomach muscles ached and stretched under the pressure of gravity, indicative of the pain medicine wearing off. If she could just get to her apartment, she could take her medicine with a shower, and—

“Uh, hey Deven.”

Deven’s head whipped up at the familiar voice and she suddenly felt lightheaded.

Justin stood on the sidewalk, a scowl etched on his face, his glare bouncing between the couple. If Paul hadn’t been gripping her so tight, reflexes would’ve had her snatching out of his arms. Even if it did make her look as guilty as she felt.

Paul either was trying to keep the mood light or pretend Justin wasn’t shooting daggers his way. He shifted to get a better grip on Deven and extended his hand in the man’s direction. “Hey. Paul,” he introduced himself, not waning when Justin didn’t accept it. “I’m Deven’s doctor.”

It wasn’t entirely the truth, but it wasn’t entirely a lie either. The title was easier than trying to rationalize the nuisances of their relationship. Justin merely lifted an eyebrow, clearly not convinced. “Doctors still make house calls these days?”

Paul chuckled to mask his discomfort. “And friend,” he added. “Deven just needed a ride home from the hospital.”

Deven inhaled sharply and began to squirm from his grasp. Pleeease, shutup, shutup, Paul. “Thanks for the ride,” she said dismissively. As much it pained her (physically and emotionally), she stepped from his arms and stood next to her boyfriend. Justin was seething, that was more than obvious, and she prayed he would remain quiet until she could get him upstairs.

Paul’s face wrinkled in confusion, but he took the hint. “Okay, well it was nice to meet you . . .” He waited for Justin to fill in the dead air with his name. But like a stubborn child, Justin remained silent.