Chapter 323

AURELIA’S POV the moment I saw him behind that desk — tall, composed, infuriatingly calm — something inside me snapped. He looked up before I even said a word, his eyes softening as if he’d expected me. “Aurelia—” “No,” I cut him off sharply, stepping inside and slamming the door shut behind me. “No formalities, no calm speeches, no diversions. You promised me answers.” His brow furrowed slightly, but his tone stayed maddeningly even. “You’re awake early.” “I didn’t sleep,” I shot back. “I spent the whole night thinking about your little deal. So let’s not waste time. You said I could ask three questions a day — then answer them.” He leaned back in his chair, exhaling slowly through his nose, the faintest muscle ticking in his jaw. “You haven’t eaten anything yet.” “Don’t change the subject.” “I’m not.” His voice deepened, steady and commanding in that infuriating Alpha way. “Sit down and eat something first. Then we’ll talk.” “Are you stalling?” The question cut sharper than I meant i