Free Web NovelChapter 111: Chapter 111
Aria’s POV
My jaw tightened, a low growl vibrating in my chest. My wolf bared her teeth, eyes glowing in my reflection on the window.
Enough running.
I slipped the handkerchief into my suitcase beside Lana’s extra clothes and lifted her into my arms.
At the front desk, I reached for my wallet to pay the penalty fee.
But Florence waved me off with a dramatic flourish. “Business has been great lately. I don’t need your money,” she said, thumping her chest like a proud and very enthusiastic woman.
I felt my lips curve upward in a
thin, tired... but real smile.
Even so, I was determined to pay. Wolves like me don’t owe debts, not when danger is already circling like vultures overhead. And right now, staying close to Nathan’s territory, close to his security, was the safest place for Lana.
I could risk myself, but not my pup.
A low growl hummed in my chest as my gaze slid to my suitcase. Whoever was hunting us hadn’t backed off.
If I figured out who they were... I’d make them pay.
In the end, I paid half the penalty fee. Florence only took it because I forced her hand.
When Lana and I stepped outside, Florence watched us go, rolling the bills between her fingers. Even from a distance, I caught the unease in her scent, a bitter tang mixed with sadness. She had told me earlier that something about me reminded her of her own daughter. That tugged strangely at my heart.
Seconds later, as Lana and I neared the neighborhood exit, a sleek stretch Lincoln glided to a stop beside me.
The window lowered, and Collins’ respectful face came into view.
“Luna Aria, are you ready to go back to Hemsworth Villa?”
My grip tightened around the suitcase handle. My wolf’s hackles lifted.
I wondered how Collins was able to arrive here already, then I remembered Nathan had sent some of his guards to go with me.
I had promised him I was going to return. Lana was the only reason I was doing this.
With a low sigh, I loosened my grip on my suitcase.
“Yes, I am...take me there.”
Collins practically sprang out of the car, opening the door and signaling one of the men to load my luggage. His movements were quick and respectful.
Inside, the ride was smooth. Lana fought to keep her eyes open, her tiny wolf energy fading after such a long day.
Collins sat rigidly in the front, sneaking awkward glances at me.
I could smell nerves rolling off him like steam. freewёbn૦νeɭ.com
He opened his mouth—then shut it again when he saw my face. That was probably for the best.
By the time we reached the villa, the sun had dipped low, stretching shadows across the estate. My heart loosened at the sight of the golden horizon.
Good, it was not too late.
Nathan should still be buried in paperwork at his office, meaning I wouldn’t have to face him yet.
But as soon as I stepped through the front door, I crashed literally into a broad chest. A warm, familiar scent filled my senses.
It was Nathan.
I froze.
He stood there in a sharp black suit, staring down at me with unreadable dark eyes.
“I’ve had the servants tidy up your room,” he said, smoothly taking my suitcase from Collins as if it weighed nothing.
What? Why was he home?
He never left the office this early.
He saw the confusion on my face but offered no explanation. He simply turned and walked toward the living room.
Typical Alpha wolf behavior, command first, explain never.
I followed with Lana in my arms. Her bright eyes darted around, taking in the massive villa, the changing décor, the obvious wealth. She looked enthralled.
“Get changed and come down for dinner. I’ll wait,” Nathan said, leaving my suitcase outside the bedroom before disappearing down the hall.
I nodded and stepped inside.
The moment the door opened, a sweet floral scent of fresh lilies hit me. My wolf stiffened, remembering my last day here a year ago.
The room hadn’t changed, but I had.
A pang struck my chest sharp enough to steal my breath. Lana sensed it immediately. She reached up and tapped my cheek gently.
Warmth flooded me.
I lowered my face to her, just enough for her tiny fingers to explore. She giggled, a clear, musical sound that chased away the shadows gathering in my heart.
I kissed her forehead and set her down before unpacking.
When I opened the closet, I froze.
Rows of pristine, high-end baby clothes filled the space; soft fabrics, delicate lace, tiny bows. I picked up one piece, and the luxurious feel told me everything.
These weren’t bought casually.
Sliding open the other closet confirmed it: trendy, custom-tailored clothes for me.
Easily more than a million dollars’ worth.
My throat tightened.
Nathan... did all this?
As if he’d been waiting.
As if, in his world, I never stopped being his wife,
As if I’d never left.
A swirl of emotions crashed into me, a mix of shock, anger and confusion.
Lana didn’t care about any of that. She squealed happily, grabbing at lace and ribbons with both hands, absolutely delighted.
Then there came a firm and commanding knock on the door.
“Time to eat,” Nathan’s deep voice came through.
I opened the door. Clothes still lay scattered around me like chaos made visible.
“I can wait,” he said, his voice curt, his eyes lingering on the mess.
“No, it’s okay,” I replied quickly.
I shifted Lana to one arm and held her bottle in the other.
No matter how many clothes, how many rooms, how much luxury...
I was still just trying to breathe, still trying to survive, still trying to protect my pup.
And now I had to face the Alpha of this house again with a past that refused to stay buried.
