Chapter 12: Unmasking Vulnerabilities.

Willow Goods.

Alaric’s POV.

I storm down the marble corridor, the distant hum of office chatter fading behind me. Each step feels heavier, as if I’m wading through treacle. The echoes of disappointment from my brief encounter with Matilda gnaw at me, a persistent itch I can’t quite reach.

I reach my office, a sleek, modern space that mirrors my mood—a sterile shell devoid of warmth. The walls, adorned with framed accolades and motivational quotes, mock me with their cheerful optimism. A heavy sigh escapes my lips as I sink into my leather chair, fingers raking through my hair in frustration. I should have known better than to expect anything from her.

Just then, the door creaks open, and Javier slips inside, his expression a mix of concern and curiosity. “You good, man?” he asks, leaning against the doorframe.

“Yeah, peachy,” I reply flatly, my gaze fixed on the city skyline, where dark clouds loom like shadows, mirroring my mood.

“Look, I get that the inauguration didn’t go as planned