Wren Shaw

“I didn’t mean for it to happen.” Her tone was low and edged with something that made my stomach twist, but I recognized that voice—Sophie. “But I can’t keep pretending I don’t feel this way about you.” For a heartbeat, I told myself I’d misheard. That my mind was filling in gaps out of fear because Ethan and I were so out of sync with each other. This couldn’t be what it sounded like. But then Ethan spoke. “I’m glad you told me.” My vision blurred, the edges of the room dimming. I stood there, frozen, listening to the echo of my own heartbeat thundering in my ears. I didn’t hear what came next. Didn’t even want to. Because nothing he could say after that would matter. No explanation would soften the blow. The damage was already done, especially since I was already aware of how Sophie fit into his world more easily than I did. She’d been born into it and looked the part with her straight blond hair and stick-thin figure. My complete opposite. I stepped back slowly, careful not to make a sound.”
― Wren Shaw, Nuptials & Neglect

“A repair tech stood beside it, wiping his hands on a rag. I slowed to a stop. “Good afternoon.” He glanced up. “Hey.” I tilted my head toward the doors. “What happened to the elevator?” “Whole system overhaul.” My eyebrows shot up. “The entire thing?” “Yep.” He jerked his chin at the closed doors. “New cab, new motors, new control panel—the works. The owner is sparing no expense.” I blinked at him. “The same guy who’s owned the place for years?” “It was the usual name on the invoice.” He tucked the rag into his pocket with a shrug. “Guess he came into some money. This stuff ain’t cheap.”
― Wren Shaw, Cake & Consequences