He hesitated, then offered, Maybe he was too furious over Linsey to notice?

That s possible, Collin admitted after a pause. But his tone grew heavier. Still, I don t think it s that simple.

Though he had no proof, Collin couldn t shake the feeling that Gorman was no longer the man he once knew.

Meanwhile, Gorman had already brought Linsey back to her apartment.

He walked her to her room and even got her a steaming cup of milk.

Thank you, Linsey murmured.

After everything that night, a deep chill still clung to her.

Only after she took a sip of her milk did warmth finally spread through her body, making her feel alive again.

How are you now? Gorman asked with concern.

Meeting his tender gaze, Linsey felt at a loss. She quickly looked away and said softly, I m much better.

For a moment, neither knew what else to say. Then Linsey suggested, It s already late. Maybe you should head home.

Linsey s words made Gorman s chest tighten, irritation stirring beneath the surface. At a time like this, she should have wanted him to stay. Why was she so eager to push him away?

The image of Collin cradling Linsey earlier gnawed at him, stirring a deep unease that she could slip through his fingers again. His gaze darkened, but he reined in his emotions. What, am I not welcome in your apartment?

Deliberately misinterpreting her words, he let a flicker of hurt brim in his eyes. Or do you think I m some kind of creep, afraid I ll try something if I stay over?

No, of course not! Linsey blurted, startled by his twist of her intent. I just didn t want to inconvenience you. That s all.

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Can I stay a bit longer then? Gorman pressed. You ve had a rough day, and you re still tipsy. If I left you alone now, what kind of man would I be? ? ?s? ?s find(?)ovel.net

Framed as concern, his words left Linsey little room to argue. She nodded reluctantly. Alright.

At her consent, Gorman s tense expression eased into a warm smile. What exactly happened today? he asked, his concern genuine.

Linsey hesitated, then chose to lay out the truth.

Gorman listened in silence, his face unreadable as she spoke. Her account matched Dustin s: Linsey had attended a business dinner, where Winslow harassed her, nearly crossing a dangerous line.

But a new detail emerged. The project had originally been Yana s assignment, but she had sent Linsey in her place.

A jolt ran through Gorman, his heart racing. Could it be

In an instant, he shot up from the edge of the bed, a dangerous glint flashing in his eyes. Linsey, I just remembered something urgent I need to handle. I ll go now rest

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