Their Secret Obsession (A Reverse Harem) by Pippa Moon novel Chapter 283

Lucky bastard—because despite the panda eyes, she was hot as hell. A knot formed in my stomach. I knew I should hate her for everything she'd done, but seeing her like this stirred something unexpected. Sympathy? Attraction? I couldn't quite place it, but it twisted uncomfortably inside me. I hated that I felt anything other than disdain for her.

"Or maybe it's just been that long since you got some. You're desperate," Thor muttered, impressed with my not-so-discreet glances.

"What are you doing here?" she demanded, her voice wavering between annoyance and something else I couldn't quite place. I forced a neutral expression, hoping she hadn't noticed my stray glances.

"Thought it was a good place to nap," I lied, meeting her gaze with forced indifference. She eyed me sceptically, a mixture of disdain and curiosity flickering across her features.

"Right outside Knox's room?" Connie stated, her brows arching beautifully.

"Quiet hallway. Comfortable floor." I shrugged casually. Delight danced in my eyes. It annoyed her, and that only added to my amusement. I caught the way her eyes drifted over me, lingering a second too long. Surprisingly, I liked it. A smirk tugged at the corner of my lips.

"You're blocking the door." She scoffed, crossing her arms over her chest.

"Am I?" I glanced back at the closed door, feigning surprise. "Didn't realise."

"Move." Her eyes narrowed. But behind the irritation, I saw something else—interest. The subtle way her gaze lingered on me, the slight flush on her cheeks. It was as if she was as aware of the tension between us as I was.

"You know, it's pretty late. Shouldn't you be... resting?" I stayed put, tilting my head thoughtfully.

"The hour isn't the only thing that is late; she is," I mused to Thor. Guilt pricked at me. I'd seen Connie countless times and never looked at her this way. Now, inappropriate thoughts crept in, and I hated myself for it. She was trouble, and I didn't need any more complications.

"Late? To the line giving out brains, yeah, maybe..."

"You know what I mean," I groaned, not liking the anger Thor had towards Connie. Despite everything, I really did feel for her. She was a pawn in this twisted game, just like the rest of us. As far as she knew, she had two mates who were dismissing her and her needs. It wasn't fair, and a part of me sympathised with her predicament.