Burn Me Once, Burn With Me novel Chapter 45

Ruby never had much of an appetite, so Cameron started ordering less for her, yet even then, she only managed a few bites.

Their table sat right by the window, offering a sweeping view of the largest lake in Quinborough. As evening settled, the water shimmered with flecks of dying light.

Setting down her fork and knife, Ruby couldn't help but be drawn to the scene outside.

Cameron's gaze, impossible to restrain, kept drifting back to her. His eyes lingered on the thin scar tracing her cheek, and a sharp pang twisted in his chest. Even his expression softened with something like sorrow.

He remembered how, not so long ago, Ms. Grayson would chat and laugh with him, telling him that being a lawyer was her life's true calling. Now, she had said she wasn't a lawyer anymore—hadn't been for a long time.

What had really happened to her during that year she'd spent in custody?

Cameron swallowed, suddenly finding that the gourmet meal before him tasted strangely bland. Beneath the table, his hand curled slowly into a fist.

He glanced at his phone resting on the table, brows knitting together in concern. Then, apologetically, he spoke up. "Ruby, I'm afraid there's an emergency meeting at work. I have to go."

Ruby nodded, understanding. "That's fine. I'm pretty much done anyway."

"It's such a shame," Cameron said, regret flickering across his face. "I booked a private screening room at the Quinborough Cinema—not far from my office—but it's too late to cancel now."

He looked at her, torn.

Ruby hesitated, but before she could answer, Cameron checked his watch and continued, "The meeting should only take about an hour. Why don't I take you and Mira to the cinema first? Once I'm done, I'll come pick you both up."

Ruby wasn't interested in movies, but when she met Cameron's pleading, puppy-dog eyes, she suddenly understood—this was his way of helping her move past the shadows of her past.

"Alright," she agreed quietly.

"Is Mr. Veyne still in his office? I have some paperwork he needs to sign," Cameron replied, lifting the thick folder in his hand.

"He hasn't left yet—just go on in."

Cameron nodded in thanks and turned to knock on Cassian's office door.

"Come in," came the response.

"Mr. Veyne, this file is urgent. It needs your signature."

Cassian's head came up, a faint frown creasing his brow at the unexpected visitor. His voice was low and hoarse from too many hours at his desk. "What kind of file needs you to deliver it personally?"

Cameron's palm was slick with nervous sweat, the folder suddenly heavy in his grasp.