Another Chance for the Luna Queen by Aurora Starling

Chapter 0279

Alexander POV

I hadn't expected Ella to still be awake when I returned to je apartment. I'd been gone less than an hour, but as upset as she'd been-and as late as it was-l figured she'd have given up waiting and gone to bed.

Instead, she was standing in the kitchen, leaning against the counter with wide, startled eyes fixed on the door as I walked in. I must have surprised her.

"Are you all right?" I asked, stepping toward her.

She nodded emphatically and shrugged one shoulder-a response so unconvincing it was almost comical. It was clear she was still upset, and I couldn't blame her.

This situation was unnerving, to say the least.

To me, it seemed obvious the messages were coming from Dr. McIntyre. August's quick search had turned up enough evidence to confirm it. That didn't rule out a connection to David, but I was doubtful.

Ella, however, seemed convinced David was somehow involved.

I felt a pang of guilt as I remembered how I'd handled her emotions before leaving. It was natural for her to be frightened and upset, but instead of offering her comfort or understanding, I'd scolded her and rushed off.

I wasn't proud of my behavior, but at the time, I'd been so focused on finding answers that I hadn't considered what she actually needed from me.

her slowly, choosing my words

certainly Dr. McIntyre," I said

tightly. "You're

back the retort that sprang to mind and

as if

she asked. "Wouldn't it be better just to go with whatever plan you and your

she's contacting. This is about you, and you should decide

my words. Then she sighed, her

do is. This whole situation has me so off-kilter and

lot to handle," I said gently. "I'm not

should be,” she said, her voice tinged with guilt. "I'm not

"But we can talk about that later.

to

at her cheek

suddenly firm. "I'm not going to let her

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Chapter 0279

let her

could escalate things," I pointed

we can fight it