Bound to the Alpha

CHAPTER THIRTY

Zackary's POV

I saw the confusion on his face after hearing what I said.

“It’s not my…” he mumbled,“Today isn’t my birthday, though.”

It’s this week, just not today. Of course, I already knew that.

“I know,” I replied with a smile.

I can’t believe how clueless he is. He still hasn’t figured it out.

He frowned. “Then why the heck are you even greeting me?”

I shifted my attention to the band playing downstairs. “I just wanted to be the first to greet you before anyone else,” I said softly, a small smile tugging at my lips.

“That’s weird.” He shook his head, his tone carrying a hint of disbelief. “And what’s with this flower, anyway?” He sounded almost sulky.

I glanced at him, barely holding back a laugh. Watching him try to act clueless was beyond amusing. How adorable.

Well, it doesn’t matter. Before this night ends, I’ll make sure to clear everything between us.

“Why?” I leaned against the railing, locking my gaze on him. “You don’t like it? hmm..”

He pressed his lips together and averted his gaze. He was avoiding my eyes, and that made me chuckle. Even with all the bright lights around us, I could see the soft flush on his cheeks.

Damn.

“I don’t hate,” he muttered sulkily. “It’s just… weird. I’ve never received one before.”

Even better.

I smirked. “I’m glad I’m the first.”

“Stop smiling like that, idiot.” he shot back, making me laugh.

“And a handsome one at that,” I teased.

“Bullshit,” he muttered, shaking his head.

Just as I was about to laugh, he turned to me, his eyes narrowing with suspicion.

“Wait,” His voice was filled with doubt. “How do you even know my birthday? I never mentioned it.”

I smiled sweetly. “Of course I know. How could I not?”

His eyes widened, and his mouth fell open in disbelief.

“You… Did you run a background check on me?!” he asked, incredulously.

“I did.” I nodded, unapologetic.

“What the hell?” he exclaimed, irritation evident in his voice.

I shrugged casually. “What did you expect? I wasn’t about to let some stranger stay at my place without checking their background first.”

“You should’ve told me!” he retorted, his tone laced with annoyance.

“Does it matter?” I said, brushing it off. “I trust you now.” I leaned closer, my voice softening. “After everything we’ve been through, how could I not?”

The intensity in his gaze faltered, and he looked away, his expression become distant.

“Shut up,” he mumbled under his breath.

He fell silent after that, focusing on the band as though my presence didn’t affect him at all. Meanwhile, I couldn’t even take my eyes off him.