Liam didn't pick up his fork. He just watched us. Jason, sensing the shift, tightened his arm around my shoulders, his fingers tapping a rhythmic, possessive beat against my arm.
"Sarah," Liam said, his voice cutting through the chatter of the junior partners. "How are you feeling, really? You look... different."
I felt Jason’s posture go rigid beside me. I swallowed hard, the steak in my throat feeling like a lead weight. "I'm doing good, Liam. Truly. Just a little tired. The merger prep has been a lot for everyone, I imagine."
Liam tilted his head, his eyes narrowing. "Oh, okay. I just wondered. I hadn't seen you around the office in a couple of days. Have you been ill?"
"Yes, she has," Jason interjected before I could find my voice. His tone was smooth, but there was a serrated edge
