Chapter 34

Lake POV

I gave Marcus what I hoped was a casual smile as we approached Central Park’s eastern entrance.

“Actually, I think I’d like to walk around alone for a bit,” I said, trying to keep my voice light despite the anxiety churning in my stomach.

“Maybe grab a coffee, do some people-watching. Clear my head.”

Marcus’s expression remained professionally neutral, but I could see the concern flickering in his eyes. He’d been Ramon’s head of security long enough to recognize when someone was trying to ditch their protection detail.

“Are you sure that’s wise?” he asked carefully. “The park is safe during the day, but Mr. Ramon would prefer—”

“I’ll be fine,” I interrupted, perhaps too quickly. “I just need some space to think. About everything that’s happened. I won’t go far, and I’ll call if I need anything.”

It was a flimsy excuse, transparent enough that Marcus clearly didn’t believe it. But he also couldn’t force me to accept his presen