Just as we were about to step into the exhibition hall, I abruptly let go of Alpha Damien's hand. He shot me a questioning look.
"Alpha Damien," I explained quickly, "there's no need to pretend anymore now that Jace is gone. I'm sorry for involving you in my personal mess earlier without asking. That was inappropriate."
He glanced sideways at me, the warmth in his eyes completely gone. "Don't apologize. A simple 'thank you' would have been enough."
Feeling properly chastened, I corrected myself. "Thank you."
He didn't reply. He just turned his back on me and walked away, clearly still angry.
I mentally kicked myself. I knew our undefined relationship wasn't something to announce publicly, yet I had foolishly called him my boyfriend.
The hall was packed, with orders flying and everyon
