Don’t Fall for the Billionaire Lover

"Aaron, I'm not here to replace your dad. But we can be friends, you know? We both love the same person, and that kind of makes us the best team, right? We both want your mom to be happy."

Summer finally looked up, meeting Connor's gaze. His eyes were shining with unshed tears. "Uncle Connor, you're not like my dad. My dad just wants to keep my mom close, but you... you really love her. My mom deserves someone who truly loves her."

"Then promise me you won't leave her, okay? If you go, she won't be happy anymore."

A tear finally rolled down Summer's cheek. "I don't want to leave Mom either."

Connor gently wiped away his tears and held out his fist. "Deal between men: we'll protect Chloe together."

Summer nodded, his little hand forming a fist to bump Connor's. "We're the Protect-Chloe Squad."

After his bath, Summer padded out of the bathroom.

Connor walked him back to Chloe's room.

Chloe immediately noticed something different about Summer. He wasn't quiet or withdrawn anymore, and he didn't ask to go home. He was back to being hernoveldrama

sweet, thoughtful little guy.

Once both kids were asleep, Chloe sent Connor a quiet text.

What did you say to Aaron?

Connor's reply came back almost instantly.

Come to the master bedroom. I'll tell you.

Chloe stared at the message, her heart suddenly beating a little faster. She slipped into something more comfortable and stepped out onto the balcony. Their balconies were connected-a big space with a spot for late-night tea and wine.

Instead of heading through the main door, Chloe decided to go in from the balcony. She raised her hand to knock, but before she could, the thick curtains inside parted and Connor appeared at the glass door.

He looked dike he'd just showered, dressed in soft gray pajamas, the

top hanging open to reveal

d lines of his chest.

As he stepped outside, Chloe quickly moved aside-if she hadn't, she would've walked right into his chest.

She took a small step back, cheeks hot. "How'd you know I was coming in this way?"

Connor's mouth quirked up in a familiar, teasing smile. "I know you. You never liked using the front door before, remember?"

Chloe blurted, "Wait, did we not used to share a room or something?"

Connor's face changed, and he cleared his throat, looking a little embarrassed. "No, we always shared a room."

As soon as he said it, the air between them grew awkward. Chloe felt her ears burning, so she quickly changed the subject.

"So... what did you say to Aaron? He seemed so much happier after coming back."

It was true. After returning, Summer seemed lighter, like a weight had lifted. He even promised to stay by her side forever.

Connor just smiled, a little mysterious. “That's a secret between men."