Chapter 272

Aria's POV I used to wait for Aiden in the garage doorway whenever he came home from work. I'd watch him park, then greet him with a playful "Mr. Carter, finished for the day?" before taking his briefcase and offering a little flirtatious affection. It always made him smile. Today, I felt a surge of nostalgia and couldn't resist recreating that moment as his car pulled into the driveway. When he stepped out, I leaned against the doorframe with a grin. Aiden's dark eyes flickered with recognition as they met mine. "Yes, finished early," he replied smoothly, approaching me. "Couldn't wait to get home to Mrs. Carter." My cheeks flushed hot at his response. My gaze dropped to his tie where the tie clip I'd given him caught the late afternoon sunlight, glinting brightly against the dark fabric. Just seeing him wearing my gift made my smile grow wider. I couldn't help thinking about the present waiting in my suitcase upstairs, anticipation bubbling in my chest. Nanny appeared from the kitche