Aria's POV
I had just stepped into my apartment, phone in hand ready to call Damian, when the doorbell chimed.
A glance through the peephole made my heart skip. I yanked the door open immediately.
"I thought you had meetings until eleven tonight?" I checked my watch—barely past nine.
Damian had told me he'd be tied up late, which was why I'd gone to the auction alone. Otherwise, I would've dragged him along. Having my Alpha beside me at these events felt... right. Natural. Like I was finally stepping into the role I was meant for.
"Cancelled." His voice was flat as he shrugged off his coat.
I reached out instinctively to take it, but suddenly found myself pulled against his side instead. The coat landed on the entryway console as his arm tightened around me.
"Did som
