Chapter 0014
Aria’s POV
Logan and I sat on the front steps of my house, the warm evening air settling around us. Joe was inside, playing with his toys, unaware of the heavy conversation that was about to unfold.
“If you want to transfer Joe to another school, I can help with that,” Logan said, breaking the silence. His voice was calm, but I could sense the concern behind his offer.
“I could never ask that of you,” I said, hesitantly hopeful.
“It’s nothing, Aria. I want Joe to be happy, too.” Logan’s eyes were sincere.
I sighed, looking down at my hands.
“I think it’s for the best,” 1 admitted quietly. “Seeing Liam stand by William’s side–it’s not good for Joe. He’s been hurt enough.”
Logan nodded, leaning back on his elbows.
“I figured it might come to this. I can make a few calls, help you find a good school. One that’ll take care of Joe, give him a fresh
start.”
I glanced over at him, feeling a surge of gratitude. Logan had always been there, reliable and steady, even when I wasn’t sure how
to move forward.
already complicated
“Thank you,” I said softly. “But I don’t want you and Liam fighting because of me. This whole situation is already c enough.”
Logan chuckled, shaking his head. “Aria, if Liam and I fight, it won’t be because of you. He’s got his own issues to deal with. But I
won’t let him make things harder for you and Joe.”
ve
His eyes met mine, sincere and unwavering. “I’ll make sure this is taken care of. Joe deserves better than to be caught in the
middle of whatever Liam’s going through.”
I nodded, a sense of relief washing over me. “I just want what’s best for Joe. That’s all that matters.”
Logan smiled, his hand resting on my shoulder. “And that’s exactly what we’ll make happen.”
Later that evening, I was sorting through some paperwork when the doorbell rang. I wasn’t expecting anyone, but when I opened the door, there stood Logan, holding an elegant, gold–embossed invitation.
thank you for considering the transfer, why don’t you accompany me to a gala?” he suggested, his smile warm and inviting.
“I need a date.”
Thesitated, my fingers brushing over the fine paper of the invitation. “A gala?”
+15 Bonus
Logan nodded. “It’s a charity event. Nothing too formal, but it’s always good to make an appearance. Plus, I could use the
company.”
“I’ll think about it,” 1 finally said, trying to sound nonchalant as I accepted the invitation.
Once inside, I heard Isabella giggle from the living room couch. I had hoped she hadn’t heard that exchange, but it seemed luck
was not on my side.
“If Logan’s inviting you to a gala, it’s more than just business, Aria. You know that, right?” Isabella teased, her eyebrows raised
knowingly.
I rolled my eyes, trying to brush it off.
“I don’t see it that way,” I replied, walking over to the kitchen. “Logan’s always been good to me. I think it’s just a gesture of
friendship, y’know?”
Isabella followed me, leaning against the counter as
I poured myself a glass of water.
“Friendship? Come on, Aria. He’s always had a soft spot for you, and now he’s offering to help with Joe’s school, paying the penalty fees? He’s not just being a friend.”
I shrugged, avoiding her gaze. “I don’t know, Isa. I mean, Logan’s helped me before. It’s nothing new.”
Isabella’s tone softened, but she didn’t let it go. “But does Logan know Joe is Liam’s son?”
“Yes,” I shot her a look. “That’s exactly why he wants to help.”
Isabella shrugged. “Then it sounds to me like you’ve got a real keeper.”
I nudged her playfully in the arm. I had much bigger problems to deal with than her flirtatious mind.
As I tucked Joe into bed that night, his small voice cut through the quiet of the room.
“Why doesn’t Daddy want us?” he asked, his big eyes filled with confusion that I hadn’t been prepared to face.
I forced a smile, hoping to ease his worries. “Didn’t you already ask Logan to be your dad?”
Joe pouted, his small face scrunching up in frustration. “But I heard you and Isabella say that Liam is my real dad.”
