The Heir's Secret Bride

At Pinehurst Apartments Maeve had taken the day off to prepare the room where By big space, but getting it ready had taken up her entire afternoon would soon be staying. It wasn't

After dinner. Maeve started browsing online for some bedding. The prices at the local stores were way too high, while the online options were much more affordable and just as good. "But what style would Mr. McDaniel like she wondered.

Out of courtesy to her soon-to-be roommate, she thought about calling him to ask. That's when it hit her-they hadn't even exchanged phone numbers.

It wasn't her fault: Byron had been so aloof throughout the whole marriage registration process that she'd found him a bit intimidating.

Maeve sighe!

put away the drying rack, and was about to head back to her room when there was a sudden knock at the door.

She quickly went over and opened it to find Byron standing outside, leaning against the wall. His face was unusually pale, and his expression just as cold as ever.

She glanced around, surprised to see he hadn't brought any luggage. Didn't you bring anything with you?" she asked. puzzled.

Byron's decision to come over had been made on the spur of the moment. Gilbert's people were keeping an eye on his house, and having the doctor visit there would only draw attention to his injury. His other properties were also under surveillance. After considering his options, Maeve's apartment was the only place that wasn't being watched.. Can I come in

"Can

in Byron asked, his voice rough

I "Sure, Maeve replied, quickly stepping aside when she noticed how unwell he looked. Byron walke walked in, his gaze sweeping over the small but impeccably tidy living room. The decor was simple but charming- flowers on the table, wind chimes by the window, and a few stuffed toys scattered on the couch. The space radiated warmth and life. Despite its modest size, it felt cozier and more inviting than the massive villa he owned in the city's most exclusive neighborhood. For a moment, something flickered in Byron's brown eyes-something he couldn't quite put into words. With Byron's commanding presence filling the space, Maeve couldn't help but feel a bit uneasy, even though he was now her husband.

She stammered. "Um... I didn't expect you to come over tonight. I just finished getting your room ready this afternoon, but I haven't had a chance to buy any furniture or bedding yet."

"Don't bother," Byron replied, his gaze turning toward her, eyes deep and hard to read. Tm only staying for a couple of nights. There's no need to go out of your way. Besides, I could offer you a better place to live, as compensation." Maeve blinked, caught off guard for a moment, before quickly shaking her head. "Oh, no, no, I'm perfectly happy living here. I know your work keeps you busy, so there's no need to go through all that trouble or expense over something so minor."

She hesitated, then added, almost as an afterthought, "Besides, we're married now. No need to be so formal about everything"

212

Byron stared at Marveveamest face and felt a strange discomfort creeping in. He cleared his throat and looked away Look. even though we're married, some things should stay separate. But if you're going to insist, fine-do whatever you want "Alright... Maeve bit her lip, feeling the heat rise to her cheeks and her palms start to sweat.

The atmosphere in the living room shifted, a subtle tension settling in.

Do you have a first-aid kit Byron asked, pulling his gaze back to her.

Yeah, j

just a second. I'll go get it," Maeve replied, nodding before heading to the TV cabinet. She didn't bother asking why he hadn't gone to a hospital, clearly, he had his reasons.

Byron gave a nod and sank down onto the e sofa

Maeve quickly found the first-aid kit and placed it on the table. "Need any help?

Byron's tone was curt as he pulled up his shirt, revealing bandages around his abdomen, stained with traces of blood.

Maeve felt a chill run through her. "You should really go to a hospital. No one's chasing you now, so it should be safe...

Her words sounded so naive that Byron almost laughed. But just as a hint of a smile crossed his lips, it vanished. He'd spotted something-a tiny red dot in the corner of the living room. He immediately stood up and walked over to the TV cabinet, grabbing a small stuffed bear.

"What's wrong? Maeve asked, confused.

Byron didn't answer. Instead, he twisted the bear's head, revealing a hidden mini camera tucked behind its eyes.

"A camera" Maeve's face drained of color. "Why the hell would there be a camera hidden in a stuffed toy!"

The bear had been set up directly facing the couch. Maeve's mind raced. 'Has someone been watching my every move? This is your house-why do you look so shocked?" Byron's voice dripped with sarcasm as he crushed the camera in his

had it hand. His eyes turned cold and piercing as he glared at her. "A camera in a toy's eyes... I gotta admit I didn't think you

in you?

He almost couldn't believe how easily he'd been fooled by her innocent act.

Maeve's eyes widened in disbelief. "You think I put that camera there to spy on you? I had no idea it was even there!" "You seriously expect me to buy that?" Byron's voice was like ice, filled with contempt. "Marrying a sneaky piece of work like you is probably the dumbest thing I've ever done.

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