Chapter 255

Joseph's POV I stared at my phone screen for what felt like the hundredth time today, swiping between apps and checking my messages. Nothing from Ava. The screen mockingly displayed the last text I'd sent her about the lawyer. "This is pathetic," I muttered, tossing my phone onto my desk. Dean stirred restlessly within me. "She's different. That's why you can't stop thinking about her." "She's just playing hard to get," I argued back, but even I didn't believe it. Mr. Winters had called earlier to confirm he was handling Ava's restraining order against that loser ex-boyfriend. At least she'd used my lawyer. But why hadn't she texted me back? Not even a simple thank you? I was frustrated. Women never ignored me. Ever. I was Joseph Garcia, for Goddess's sake. I was the Alpha of Nightbane Pack, CEO of a tech empire, and according to Harbor Bay Magazine's annual bachelor edition, one of the city's most eligible men. "You sound like a whiny pup," Dean chided. "Since when do you care this mu