The days that followed were a mix of bliss and uncertainty. Their connection deepened, both physically and emotionally, but Lily couldn't shake the feeling that they were teetering on the edge of something fragile.
In the office, James was still professional, though his stolen glances and fleeting touches made her pulse race. But outside of work, their relationship was anything but restrained.
One evening, as they lay in bed, James' phone buzzed. He hesitated before answering, his jaw tightening.
"Who was that?" Lily asked after he ended the call.
"Just work," he replied, but his tone was guarded.
Lily frowned. "Is there something you're not telling me?"
James sat up, raking a hand through his hair. "It's complicated."
The words stung. After everything they'd shared, she thought they were past secrets.
"I can handle complicated," she said, her voice firm.
But James didn't answer, and the silence between them felt heavier than any argument.