The CEO's Midnight Remedy novel Chapter 343

Aria’s POV

60%

We had a late lunch at a discreet restaurant near the Plaza Hotel, where Caroline ordered champagne before I could request water.

To new friends,‘ she said, raising her glass. “And to surviving the Kane men.”

I hesitated before clinking my glass against hers. ‘I’m not sure surviving is the right word.”

‘Isn’t it?‘ Her smile was knowing. ‘Devon isn’t exactly low–maintenance. Neither Noah, for that matter.”

‘Why are you being so kind to me?” I asked directly.

Caroline set down her glass, her expression becoming serious. “I’ve known Devon for years. I was originally supposed to be his suitable match, you know- the perfect Kane bride according to Eleanor’s master plan.”

I tried not to show my surprise. “What happened?”

“We realized we’d make each other miserable.” She shrugged. “Devon needs someone who challenges him, not someone who fits neatly into his world. And frankly, I fell for his best friend instead.”

She studied me for a moment. I initially thought you were just his latest distraction. But seeing how he’s moved mountains to protect you this week…” She shook her head slightly. “He’s serious about you, Aria. Trust me on that.”

Before I could respond, our food arrived. As we ate, the conversation shifted to lighter topics–the wedding venue, the guest list, Caroline’s honeymoon plans. I found myself actually enjoying her company, which was unexpected given the circumstances.

It wasn’t until we were preparing to leave that Caroline became serious again. “A word of advice,‘ she said quietly. “Devon won’t say it, but he needs you right now. More than he’s needed anyone in a long time.”

“Because of the sleeping issues?” I asked before I could stop myself.

Her eyebrows rose slightly. “He told you about that? Interesting.” She picked up her purse. “That’s part of it. The rest… well, that’s his story to tell.”

Marcus was waiting outside with the car. As we slid into the backseat, I found myself wondering what other secrets Devon was keeping.

When I returned to Devon’s penthouse that evening, I found him packing a small overnight bag, his expression grim as he spoke on the phone.

‘How bad is it?‘ he was saying. “…No, I understand. Have the car ready. I’ll be there in twenty.”

He ended the call when he saw me, but not before I caught the flicker of concern in his eyes.

‘You’re leaving?” I asked, setting down the shopping bags.

‘Something came up with Evelyn. His voice was clipped, professional. “I need to go.”

I remembered the quiet woman with the red ruby necklace–the one I’d seen Devon treat with such tenderness. ‘Is she alright?‘

“She will be.‘ He zipped the bag closed. “I’ll be gone overnight, possibly longer.”

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21:11 Mon, Jan 12 T.

Chapter 343

I wanted to ask more, to understand who this woman was to him, but his closed expression made it clear the subject wasn’t open for discussion.

‘I should thank you,” I said instead, changing tactics. For handling the media sipation.”

“It was a temporary fix. He checked his watch. The story will resurface eventually.

Still, I appreciate it. I hesitated. “And Caroline’s invitation… was that your doing too?”

Devon’s expression remained neutral. “Caroline makes her own decisions.”

“But you spoke to her about me.”

‘I ensured you wouldn’t be ostracized.” He slung the bag over his shoulder. “Your father’s actions aren’t yours.”

It was the closest thing to kindness he’d shown me since the news broke. I moved closer, wanting suddenly to touch him, to bridge the strange distance that had formed between us. “Devon-

His phone buzzed again, and he checked it with a frown. “I have to go. Marcus will be available if you need anything.”

‘I’ll be fine,” I said, stepping back.

He paused at the door, his hand on the knob. “Don’t listen to any rumors about me while I’m gone. I’ll see you at the wedding.”

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