Chapter 343

Ava's POV Joseph's jaw clenched as he walked toward me. The look in his eyes reminded me of a predator ready to pounce. "Where the hell have you been?" he demanded. I squared my shoulders, refusing to be intimidated. "Having dinner." Kenneth rolled down his window before driving off. "I happened to run into this lovely young lady at the diner. Since it was late, I offered her a ride home." His smile looked real, but I caught something in his eyes when he looked at Joseph. Joseph's hand found my waist, fingers pressing possessively against my hip. "Thank you for bringing my girlfriend home safely," he said with forced politeness. "I appreciate it." The way he emphasized "my girlfriend" made my stomach twist. Like he owned me. "Your girlfriend is delightful company," Kenneth grinned. "You're a lucky man, Alpha Joseph." "I'm well aware," Joseph's grip tightened slightly. Kenneth nodded politely, though he glanced at me with slight concern. "I should be going now. Goodnight, Ava." The tens