The hotel lobby buzzed with quiet conversation, but Kate felt like her heart was about to explode right out of her chest. Of all the hotels in the city, of course Grayson had to show up at this one.

He looked flawless. Imposing. But his eyes were blades, sharp and unrelenting. And Ethan's hand at her waist wasn't helping.

Sienna smiled, still clinging to his arm.

"Oh… is that your boyfriend, Kate?" she asked sweetly. Then she turned to Grayson. "They make a cute couple, don't you think, darling?"

He didn't answer. His gaze stayed locked on Kate, burning into her, and in that moment, he hated how beautiful she looked. But more than anything, he hated that she was there with another man.

"Good evening, Mr. Maxwell," Kate said, forcing herself to breathe. Her voice was cool and professional, like he was just another client. "Sienna. Always a pleasure."

Mr. Maxwell.

Something inside him snapped. That tone, that distance—clean and formal—hit him like a knife to the chest.

Si