Aaron didn’t announce himself. He didn’t call ahead. He didn’t hesitate. ⸻ By the time Elena opened the door, his expression had already said everything. Cold. Decisive. Done. ⸻ “Well,” she said softly, leaning against the frame, her lips curving faintly. “That didn’t take long.” ⸻ Aaron walked past her without responding. The door clicked shut behind him. ⸻ “End it,” he said. No greeting. No warmth. Just command. ⸻ Elena turned slowly, watching him as she moved deeper into the apartment. “You’re going to have to be more specific,” she replied lightly, pouring herself a drink. ⸻ Aaron’s gaze followed her. Sharp. “You know exactly what I mean.” ⸻ She took a slow sip, then looked at him over the rim of her glass. “The posts?” she asked. “The rumors? The attention?”

