Chapter 144

Liam's POV I turned just enough to see her slumping in defeat, muttering self-recriminations. "Way to go, Allison . I told myself not to lead with marriage, and what do I do? Lead with marriage. Brilliant." She gathered her purse, preparing to leave, looking utterly defeated. Something in me—something primal and instinctive—made me reach out and catch her wrist as she passed. "Sit down," I commanded, my Alpha voice slipping out before I could stop it. "It seems we might have compatible goals after all. I need a wife in name only, and you seem to be in the market for exactly that." Her eyes widened, genuine surprise crossing her features. "Why would you need that?" "Because I don't have time for relationships," I said bluntly. "I don't have time for emotional demands, irrational jealousy, or any of the other complications that come with actual partnerships. My work is my priority. I need someone to fulfill a role, satisfy my family's expectations, and otherwise stay out of my way." Her