Aiden’s POV
Is this how weak I’ve become?
I used to pride myself on my self-control. I never looked at a girl twice if she didn’t hold at least a spark that appealed to me…even the smallest one.
My thoughts always stayed locked down. My emotions stayed in line at all times. Now look at me. Falling apart because Gabby didn’t come down for breakfast.
Breakfast ended about fifteen minutes ago. The plates had been cleared, the silverware stacked, and the whole family had drifted into the relaxation area the way we always did after morning meals.
The long sofas faced the wide windows with light spilling across the rugs. Someone had left the French doors cracked open so the garden air could move through.
Valerie sat like she already owned the place.
She had claimed the center of the lar
