Page 32 of A Sinful Gravity

Washington was the city of that heartbroken woman from six years ago. It could also be the city of the principal dancer standing on the Kennedy Center's stage now. Those two things didn't conflict.

"I'm going," I told Seb, voice firm. "I'll tell Amy tomorrow."

He paused a beat, then laughed softly. "Good. I'll let her know too."

"And," I smiled though he couldn't see, "thanks for calling tonight."

"Get some sleep. We've got rehearsal tomorrow." He hung up.

I set my phone on the armrest. Wind blew through the half-open window, carrying river dampness and that crisp autumn chill.

I sat on the couch a while longer, then stood, turned off the lights, and went to bed.

Before sleeping, I cracked Laila's door. She was out cold, little hand spread open by the pillow, pale blonde hair messy across her face, breathing even and unguarded.

I closed her door gently, went to my bedroom, lay down, and closed my eyes.

Washington. Six years.

This time, I was going back as my true self.

Chapter Eight

Cassian

We could see the Southeast Asia new business line turning profitable a full quarter ahead of schedule, and this year's net profit growth hit the highest mark in five years...

In the conference room, the CFO droned on for half an hour.

I tapped my fingers on the table. Solid. Every number landed right in my expected range. Some even beat it.

The annual meeting stayed quiet. Even the old board member who usually nitpicked the most kept his mouth shut today. He just leaned back in his chair, looking steadily satisfied.

After it wrapped, that old board member came over.

"Great job, Cassian. The company's doubled in size this year, all thanks to you."

I smiled politely. "It's everyone's effort."

Then I grabbed my files and headed out of the conference room. My assistant trailed behind, rattling off the afternoon schedule. I listened as I walked to my office, pushed the door open, dumped the stuff, and sank into my chair.

Once he finished and left, the office fell silent except for my shallow breaths.

My hand automatically slid open the top drawer. Inside lay a black velvet jewelry box.

I opened it, and blue shards of light spilled out. I touched it—the smooth warmth lingered.

I pulled out the ring and cradled it in my palm.

Sapphire. Rimmed with tiny diamonds. Sunlight from the window hit it, refracting deep blue glows inside.

Six years, and I'd never let it out of my sight. Like she was still right here.

Luna. Her name always twisted something sharp in my chest. Later, I figured it was longing.

Where was she now? Would she come back?

I didn't dare think about it, especially the worst possibility.