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We found a place nearby.

"What brings you over here?"

"Scouting." He sounded offhand. "The academy needs to expand — the current space is too small. This area has a better arts atmosphere, easier to recruit. And I'd be able to drop you at work."

My chopsticks paused.

"So the investment came through?"

"Natasha's family was cautious — they're only letting her put in around half a million. But combined with what I have, it's workable." He reached over and held my hand, looking at me steadily. "It's not ideal, but I want to start. Build slowly. And this way we'd be commuting together."

Dominic had already ended things with Natasha. And she could still produce half a million?

"Half a million is serious money for most people," I said carefully. "You're sure she's good for it?"

"I've had dinner at her family's place. Everything checked out." He pressed my palm. "And the transfer already went through."

I had nothing left to say.

He kept holding my hand.

"So you saw us on the hillside road yesterday. I figured."

He leaned forward slightly. "I was meeting with her about the investment. Outside, quick conversation, and then I came after you. Vivian, I wasn't trying to cause an accident. I just didn't want you thinking the wrong thing." He looked genuinely troubled. "I wish I'd just let you go."

I stared at him. My hand stayed where it was because moving it felt like more effort than I had.

"Since I left the university to start the academy, the pressure's been enormous. There were times I'd lock myself in the bathroom just to get away from everything. I didn't want to bring any of it to you. And I know that meant I wasn't taking care of you the way I should have."

His voice grew heavier. He held my eyes. "But I see it now. We're going to get through this. Better than before."

I said nothing.

Every word he said was technically reasonable. The problem was that not one of them landed anymore.

"My break's over," I said. "I should head back."