Chapter 91

A dull, familiar ache blossomed inside me at the idle thought; an old emptiness I’d grown accustomed to pushing away rose up in the wake of Noah’s proximity. I quickly averted my gaze, my cheeks flushing slightly as I fought to regain my composure. Clearing my throat, I gently disengaged from Noah’s side. “I’m just going to… powder my nose real quick,” I mumbled, already turning away. “I’ll be right back.”

Noah simply nodded absently, his attention snagged by something across the field. I didn’t wait for a reply, hurrying away; my steps sharp and brisk as I headed for the house, my cheeks still burning.

Once inside the cool mansion, I drew a deep, steadying breath, letting my shoulders slump slightly. “Get a grip,” I chided myself sternly. The last thing I needed was to get flustered over nothing.

Lifting my chin, I made my way to the bathroom off the main foyer. The soft sound of the picnic drifted through the open windows, oddly relaxing. I reached out, turned the handle, and swung the door open—

“Hannah.”

I turned to see Drake hurrying down the hall, an easy smile on his lips.

“Drake,” I said, releasing the door. A reluctant smile tugged at my lips as he pulled me into a loose hug. “I trust you’re enjoying the picnic.”

He hummed in acknowledgment, his knowing gaze flickering over my face. “Everything going okay? No… issues?” he asked carefully.

I knew what he meant—whether I’d managed to separate Noah and Zoe. That was our plan; the other day, on our motorcycle ride, I’d made him a promise. I’d promised to keep Zoe and Noah apart so Drake could talk to her, explain his past behavior, and hopefully, make amends.

“Zoe went off on her own,” I said quietly, nodding toward the picnic. “You should have a good chance.”

Tipping his head back, Drake regarded me through hooded eyes. He nodded, straightened, and placed his hands on his hips. “Alright. I’ll go find her,” he said. “Keep your fingers crossed?”

“Of course,” I replied, keeping my tone light. “I hope it goes well. You both deserve happiness.”

Drake grinned, his eyes crinkling, before playfully winking and leaving the mansion. I watched him go, my smile fading as the door closed.

Letting out a heavy sigh, I entered the bathroom, strode to the mirror, and leaned on the cool marble sink, poking at my makeup. I wore a matching pants and top set with stylish boots and a cropped jacket for the day.

I looked good. Too bad my husband wouldn’t notice.

My husband.

For a moment, my hand fluttered to my belly—to the little life inside and the undeniable sense of want that had blossomed there. Goddess, it felt like forever. Tonight would have been our monthly intimacy.

But not anymore. Not when…

Suddenly, the door crashed open, causing me to gasp and whirl around. A tall figure loomed in the doorway, and I parted my lips to call for help, my fingers curling around the sink—only to realize who it was.

“Noah? This is the ladies’ bathroom!” I exclaimed.

Noah didn’t care. He slammed and locked the door, then strode toward me. He came so close his body pressed against mine, pushing me against the sink.

“Were you with Drake just now?” he hissed, his voice low and dangerous.

Chapter 92