Chapter 149

Aria's POV I looked up from my laptop, exhausted after coordinating with Aiden and Julian to clear up that Valentine's Day misunderstanding. Thank God Lillian had offered to help by sharing our selfie with the timestamp. Still, reading those "just friends" comments online made my chest ache. It wasn't real between us, but damn if it didn't hurt anyway. And then there was Aiden with Elena Pierce... I covered my eyes, desperately trying to block out those thoughts when a knock startled me. "Coming, Nanny!" I called, shuffling across the floor in my slippers. When I opened the door, my heart nearly stopped. Aiden stood there, tall and imposing, his dark eyes fixed on me. Tears welled up instantly. "Mr. Carter?" My voice cracked embarrassingly. Realizing I was losing control, I looked away quickly, blinking furiously. "Why are you suddenly back?" Tears escaped despite my efforts. "Would you believe me if I said I got something in my eye?" I attempted weakly. "That upset?" he asked, his ton