My heart pounded in my chest and I didn't know if it was from the thrill of getting caught in this way or because I was shocked by how Chase knew the truth.
“H-how did you know?”
He met my gaze and sighed lazily as he leaned further into his seat. “It’s my company, Eleanor. I have eyes and ears everywhere.”
My breath caught in my throat. The sudden shift in Chase's tone sent a chill down my spine. The playful banter had vanished, replaced by a hard edge that I hadn’t anticipated.
"Chase, I—"
He held up a hand, silencing me. His gaze, once filled with desire, now carried a hint of disappointment. "Why didn't you just tell me, Eleanor?"
I took a deep breath, trying to gather my thoughts. "I... I didn't want to worry you. Velma needed someone to talk to, and I thought I could help."
“A
