Chapter 48

Paige’s POV "I'm leaving," I informed Noah after helping him sit on the couch in his hotel room. He had insisted on staying here after the doctor discharged him. He was okay now, but still weak. That's what happens when an Alpha ingests silverleaf—their strength diminishes for hours, sometimes days. The doctor had confirmed Ryder was still present but subdued, which was a relief. "Stay, please." His voice was stronger than it had been at the hospital, but his eyes still held that vulnerability that made my chest tighten. I looked at him and shook my head. "I need to work, Noah." He heaved a sigh and slowly nodded. The disappointment on his face was clear, and part of me wondered if it was genuine or if he was playing me. Tiana whined softly inside me, concerned for her mate. If this was an act, it was certainly effective. I chewed my bottom lip and scratched my forehead, deliberating. "I'll come back here. Later, after work. We'll... eat dinner together." His face immediately brightene