"It's over," I say, taking a deep breath. "Now we are just two people who worked together and signed a successful contract."
I try to sound professional. Distant. But the way he looks at me is not professional.
It is the gaze of a man who has not yet finished feeling.
"Is that what we are?" he asks.
I don't answer right away.
Because if I answer honestly... everything would break.
I get up.
"Thanks for the coffee."
He also stands up.
"Clara."
His voice stops me before I can make the first move.
I don't turn around.
"I've set limits," he repeats. "And not out of obligation."
Now I do look at him.
"Then put them on yourself too, Ethan."
My voice is soft. But firm.
"Because sometimes Vanessa is not the problem."
He stands still... I leave the cafeteria with my back straight.
