**Chapter 34: A Twinge of Doubt**
**Landon’s POV:**
Aaliyah cradled Nathan in her arms as she made her way back to the room, her soft whimpers mingling with Nathan’s heart-wrenching cries. The sounds drifted through the air like a haunting melody. In that moment, I felt an overwhelming urge to follow them, to offer comfort and reassurance to my Omega and our precious child.
Yet, despite the turmoil churning within me, my feet felt as if they were firmly anchored to the floor, immovable and heavy.
The room that had once been Natalie’s was starkly empty, devoid of any trace of her presence.
This emptiness was not the fleeting kind that hinted at a temporary absence; it was a void that spoke of finality. Every remnant of her existence had been meticulously wiped away, leaving behind an unsettling silence that felt like a one-sided annulment of the bond we had shared, unspoken yet profound.
How could she just walk away like this?
She was merely a low-ranking Beta, a half-breed werewolf whom I had taken under my wing, providing her shelter and protection. How dared she leave so decisively, as if our connection meant nothing?
Frustration bubbled within me as I rubbed my temples, trying to dispel the tension coiling in my mind. The company was at a critical juncture, and Natalie had been integral in navigating the complexities of multiple projects. Her absence was not merely an emotional blow; it was a direct strike at my authority and financial stability.
I turned my gaze toward the servants, who stood trembling, their wolfish features barely concealed. My voice dropped to a low growl, laced with an Alpha’s dominance. “Speak up! When did Natalie leave, and why was I not informed?”
The servants exchanged fearful glances before one finally stammered out the truth. “She packed her things and left a few days ago. She said you were too busy, and there was no need to disturb you.”
My heart sank like a stone. A few days ago? That timing was no coincidence; it was right after Aaliyah had moved in.
Just as I had suspected, jealousy had driven Natalie to this drastic move. Was she throwing a tantrum in hopes of regaining my attention or perhaps even a commitment? What exactly did she desire? A title? A stake in the Richardson Group? Her greed was astounding.
Just then, Aaliyah returned, and I braced myself for her anger. To my surprise, she approached me with a gentle demeanor, taking my hand in hers. Her pheromones enveloped me like a soothing balm, calming the storm brewing within.
“I know Natalie’s situation has been a headache, and the issues with the company and family have been overwhelming,” she said softly, her voice filled with understanding.
“Aaliyah, aren’t you angry with me?” I asked, my voice rough around the edges. I felt like I was losing control, and it was all because of Natalie.
“How could I be angry?” Aaliyah shook her head, placing my hand over her heart. “I understand that you’re doing all of this for us, for our family.”
Her words wrapped around me like a warm embrace, easing my tension. “I’ve messed things up,” I admitted, a hint of shame creeping into my tone.
“It’s not your fault,” Aaliyah reassured me, moving closer. “We are soul-bound mates. We’ll navigate this together.”
Her comforting words washed over me, and I instinctively wrapped my arms around her, holding my Omega close, the one I was bound to in every sense of the word.
Yet, as soon as I closed my eyes, Natalie’s image invaded my thoughts.


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