He looked every bit the devoted Alpha and future sire. Once upon a time, that sight would’ve shattered me.
I used to think that if he cared so deeply for our child, then surely—somewhere—he cared for me too. Maybe he just didn’t know how to say it.
Now I understood.
He loved the pup.
Not me.
“Still upset about earlier?” he asked gently. “You shouldn’t be. I didn’t tell you about Milly joining the company because it didn’t matter. She’s between jobs—I’m just lending a hand. It’s temporary. She’ll be gone soon.”
He paused, noticing I hadn’t reached for his coat like I usually did. That was when he realized I was angry.
His voice softened, coaxing. “You’re jealous, aren’t you? There’s no reason to be. She’s my past. I don’t feel anything for her anymore. You’re the one I’m with now.”
I almost laughed.
Instead, I stood frozen as he leaned in and pressed a kiss to my cheek—far more tender than usual.
If I hadn’t seen you with her, I thought bitterly. If I hadn’t heard what you said… I might have believed you.
But now, every gentle word, every affectionate touch, felt rehearsed.
Not love.
Just control.
Aria’s POV