The Beta's Missing Mate (Book 16 Of The Regal Eclipse Pack Series)

Chapter 45

Aidan's need to shift was bothering him, though it was overshadowed by his need to mark Ana. He sort of felt like Ghost was punishing both of them. His wolf had become a major pain in his ass.

Aidan felt like he needed to sleep for a bit just to clear his head, but Ana wouldn't even leave him alone then. He wondered if she would now that she was with him. He may need her in his bed just so he could get some decent, dreamless sleep. He was sure she would go for that. Though she'd sleep better, too, convincing her of that wouldn't be easy.

He sighed. He wanted her badly, but he had to be patient and ignore his need to go to her. He needed her to want him too, and not just physically. He had a feeling she did want him, but her mind wouldn't be one hundred percent there. Not yet anyway. He had a feeling she was just as shocked as he was that they'd crossed paths again.

He'd seen the look on her face as soon as she'd spotted him. Shock, followed by excitement. She'd genuinely had no clue that he'd be here. And then he'd rained on her happiness and hurt her like an asshole. But she still wanted him. Both he and Xavier had been aware of that.

Aidan sighed as he stared at his laptop. He hadn't done a single thing on it. Instead, he'd sat here fantasizing about Ana. He should just jerk off. Maybe then he'd have a bit more control over himself. And better yet, maybe she'd walk in and help him. Not likely.

He glanced at the time again, then stood and stretched. The sound of sniffling reached his ears, and he frowned. Ana. Her bedroom door was surprisingly still open. The fact that she was in her room crying immediately helped his dick calm down. He needed to go to her and also worry about dinner. He could not take her downstairs. Not today. She wasn't ready for that. They had much to talk about first, plus, he highly doubted she wanted to be around a bunch of people when she was upset.

Mom?

Aidan. What's up?

Can you possibly bring me up two plates of food? My mate showed up here, and she's really upset. I'm not sure she'll eat. And I definitely don't want to drag her down there. If his mother found out what was going on, she'd probably kill him. Another reason not to continue the charade and explain everything to Ana.

Your mate is here?!

Yes. It's a long story, too. Complicated.

What about Bianca?

Ask Zane about her.

I sure will, and yes, I will bring you both a plate.

Thank you.

He stood there for a moment, thinking. Of any one person on this planet, he was the one who could comfort Ana the most. He just wondered if she'd let him. Only one way to find out.

He left his office and walked back to her room. She was lying on the bed, her back to him. He walked over and sat down behind her, then reached out and lightly touched her arm. Tingles danced up his hand from that spot, thrilling him. He'd missed those tingles.

"Please go away," she murmured. "I don't want to talk now."

"I can't do that, Ana," he said quietly. He really couldn't just walk away. Not when he knew she was hurting. "Your father?"

She didn't respond, which confirmed it. He wanted to lie down next to her and pull her into his arms, but he already knew she wouldn't welcome it. Much to his annoyance. So instead, he remained sitting with his hand on her bare arm.

Finally, she spoke. "I can't help it."

He frowned. Couldn't help what? "I'm not sure I understand."

"Being sad over my father's death," she said softly.