Alexander’s POV
The sight in front of me stirs something deep and unwelcome.
Carl. Isabel. Together.
Not just discussing business, but enjoying each other’s company, the kind of ease that speaks of familiarity, of something beyond mere negotiations. I freeze at the threshold, my mind stumbling for a second—before reality snaps back with a sharp, bitter edge.
So, it’s true.
I scoff, sliding my hands into my pockets, masking the tightness in my chest. “Didn’t realize your office had turned into a home for strays.” My voice is calm, laced with indifference, but the words are aimed directly at Carl. A reminder that no matter what he’s doing here, no matter how much he tries to insert himself into Isabel’s world, he’ll never be me.
Carl smirks as he rises to his feet, unbothered. “That’s
