The next morning, Damian paused outside Aria’s door, hand lifted, knuckles stiff. One breath.

Two.

Then he knocked.

From inside, her voice floated out—calm, distant.

“Come in.”

He stepped inside… and she turned, surprise flickering just once before her walls snapped back up.

“Long time, Miss Carter,” he said, trying for neutral.

“Mr. Cross,” she replied, tone cool enough to frost the windows.

“We need to talk.”

“I’m listening.”

She stayed by the window, arms folded, sunlight tracing her silhouette like a quiet armor.

He swallowed. “Selene is pregnant.”

“I know,” she said without even turning.

His brows shot up. “She told you?”

“And why shouldn’t I answer that question?”...