For a moment, we stay just like that, wrapped up in each other, his arms keeping me steady as our hearts slow. His lips find mine in a surprisingly tender kiss.
When he sets me down, my legs are shaking so badly that I have to hold onto his shoulders. His answering smirk is insufferable.
“Not a word,” I warn, but I can’t help smiling.
“Wouldn’t dream of it.” He steadies me with a hand on my waist. “Though I am pretty proud of myself right now.”
I roll my eyes but lean into him for a moment longer before reality starts creeping back in. We dress quickly, stealing glances at each other in the dim light. I try not to think about how many university regulations we just violated. What’s the penalty for having mind-blowing sex in your lab’s cleaning supply closet? Probably not great.
The sound of Freddie’s blaring ringtone makes us both jump. He checks it, then gives me an apologetic look. “It’s Troy. I should probably...”
“Yeah, of course.” I wave him off, trying to sound casual while hunting for my bra. “Go ahead.”
As he steps out, I’m left alone with my thoroughly disheveled thoughts and a mop bucket that’s definitely judging me. I gather my clothes, wondering how I went from dedicated scientist to supply closet temptress in the span of an afternoon.
That’s when I hear it—Freddie’s voice seeping through the crack under the door. And it definitely doesn’t sound like he’s talking to Troy. There isn’t any laughter or “bro”-ing.
Curiosity gets the better of me, and I inch closer to the door, straining to hear.
“…understand the offer, sir.” Freddie’s voice is low, serious.
My brow furrows. Sir?
“…need to consider carefully.” Another pause. “Yes, I know the implications.”
A cold feeling settles in my stomach. This doesn’t sound like a chat with a friend. And sir? The only person Freddie calls that is…
Dr. Reeves.
But why would Freddie be talking to Dr. Reeves at this hour? And what offer?
“I appreciate the opportunity,” Freddie continues.
I press closer to the door, feeling like a character in a bad spy movie. “I’ll have an answer for you soon.”
Oh shit.They’re wrapping the call up.
I scramble back to my bag, trying to look innocent as Freddie re-enters the room. “Everything okay?” I ask, hoping my voice doesn’t betray my suspicion.
“Yeah, fine,” Freddie says, but his smile doesn’t quite reach his eyes. “Troy just wanted to confirm plans for tomorrow.”
Oh, Freddie. Sweet, adorable, terrible liar, Freddie. If that was Troy, then I’m the Queen of England.
“Oh, right—the road widening discussion?” I try to keep my voice casual. “You coming? The environmental impact report is a joke.”
He runs a hand through his hair, not meeting my eyes. “Can’t. Got a few clients booked at the gym.”
As we finish packing up in awkward silence, I can’t shake the feeling that something’s off. We just shared this incredible moment—both professionally and personally. We’re on the verge of a major breakthrough with our project. This should be a high point.
Instead, I feel a creeping sense of unease. What is Freddie hiding? And how does Dr. Reeves factor into all this?
“Yeah,” I reply, shouldering my bag. “You sure you can’t make it tomorrow? Even for a little while?”
“Definitely can’t,” he says quickly. “Protein shakes won’t blend themselves. Ready to go?” Freddie asks, flashing that smile that usually makes my knees weak, but now just makes me suspicious.
“Yeah,” I reply, shouldering my bag. “Let’s go.”
ALEX
