Rue’s POV

My lips curved into a short smile. “If I wanted your attention, Aiden, trust me—I’d have it. And I wouldn’t have to pretend to be anyone else to get it.”

I’d just turned to leave when Aiden moved. His arm blocked my path before I could take another step.

I stopped, my pulse quickening—not out of fear, but because after years of separation, it felt strange being so close to him. I hadn’t expected standing this near to Aiden, let alone meet and speak to him.

He ...