The Billionaire’s Secret Quartet (Thalassa and Elowen) novel Chapter 1528

Alaric's charming eyes narrowed into a playful smirk as he teased, "Thalassa is part of your family too?"

Before Hertha or Thalassa could react, Alaric continued, "Since friends are welcome to dine with you, why can't I join?"

Hertha immediately wrapped an arm around Thalassa's shoulders, declaring with conviction, "Thalassa is practically family, not an outsider at all. Of course, she can dine with us. Besides, having Thalassa over doesn't make Spencer jealous. He's more than happy to take care of all the chores."

Hearing this made Alaric feel a twinge of discomfort. It was clear how much Hertha cared about Spencer's feelings.

But he quickly reassured himself that he had already decided to let go of any romantic feelings for Hertha and to simply treat her as a friend. And as a friend, what's wrong with joining them for a meal?

"Spencer can't even handle you making male friends?" Alaric crossed his arms, leaning back with a casual air, his sharp eyes peering at Hertha, "Or is it that there's a lack of trust between you two? Spencer doesn't feel secure? If there's trouble in paradise, why not..."

"You've got it all wrong!" Hertha cut him off before he could finish, blinking rapidly and speaking with a hint of nervousness, "Spencer and I are very much in love. Don't make things up! I just don't want any misunderstandings..."

Not wanting misunderstandings?

Alaric's heart ached a bit more uncontrollably.

However, seasoned in the ways of love, he had mastered the art of concealing his feelings. No matter how much it hurt, he maintained a carefree and somewhat roguish demeanor.

"Seems like you don't really consider me a friend, eh? Moving in next door on my first day, and you don't even invite me over for a meal. You're breaking my heart."

"What? You're the new neighbor?" Hertha exclaimed, her eyes wide with surprise. She had seen Alaric directing movers around the house but hadn't thought much of it.