Chapter 123. Too Distant

His hands clenched into fists, his nails digging into his palms. He watched, helplessly, as Emerald basked in Alaric's attention, smiling in a way she had never smiled for him.

His chest burned with a mix of frustration and jealousy. He wanted to lash out, to say something, anything—but he couldn't. He was utterly powerless in this moment, forced to watch her slip further away.

Emerald, ever perceptive, caught the fire in his eyes. She knew exactly what was happening inside him.

Alaric was as cunning as he was upright, and today, it was Ethan's turn to learn a lesson. Emerald met Alaric's gaze and, with perfect timing, flashed a sweet, playful smile.

"Thank you, Aric~" she said softly, her voice carrying just the right amount of warmth and affection.

Ethan's thoughts drifted back to the years he spent with Emerald. She had always been distant, unwilling to meet his friends or truly integrate into his life. Back then, he told himself she was just reserved—but n