"Is that so..." he said, visible disappointment on his face. He forced a smile, clearly about to say something else, but was interrupted. "Aria!" My heart tightened at the familiar voice. I turned with a frown to see Alexander standing by his car across the street, staring at me with intensity. After not seeing him for several days, I noticed he looked tired – subtle dark circles under his amber eyes that his expensive suit and perfectly polished shoes couldn't disguise. Despite my resentment, my wolf stirred slightly at the sight of our mate. I turned back to Jason. "I need to go. I'll see you inside." Jason nodded, his expression wary as he glanced between me and Alexander. "Of course. If you need anything..." I gave him a grateful smile before walking toward Alexander, steel

