Chapter 158

Aria's POV I stared at my bowl, unable to enjoy the delicious beef noodles anymore. My mind was spinning with guilt after learning Aiden had waited outside Lillian's apartment for me for an hour and a half. My attempted cold shoulder act had crumbled instantly. Each bite felt tasteless now as shame washed over me. After chewing and swallowing a mouthful, I glanced up at Aiden. "Mr. Carter," I said softly, my voice barely above a whisper. Aiden had nearly finished his meal. He looked up, making a small sound in his throat. "Hmm?" I fidgeted with my chopsticks, pressing them between my fingers. "I'm sorry I didn't check my phone earlier. I was chatting with my friend and didn't see your message." My face burned hot with the lie. The truth was I'd seen his message and deliberately ignored it, but I couldn't bring myself to admit that. I quickly lowered my head again, focusing intently on my noodles, afraid of what he might say next. Five minutes later, I finished my last bite. As I reache