---- I saw them every day when I passed, but I never took them. Aweek later, Lucas himself appeared. He was standing outside my studio, wearing simple jeans and a white shirt, stripped of his usual domineering air. When he saw me come out, he didn't approach, just stood at a distance. "Sophie." His voice was soft. "Can we talk?" "There's nothing to talk about." I walked around him and headed for the parking lot. He followed behind, keeping a safe distance. "T fired Willow's friends," he said. "Everyone in the pack who was spreading rumors, I got rid of them all." I didn't respond. "T've also cut off all contact with Willow," he continued. "Sophie, I've realized what an asshole I was." ---- I stopped and turned to look at him. "Lucas, do you think an apology is enough?" "No." His eyes were filled with remorse. "I know it's not enough. But please, give me a chance to prove I can change." "Change what? Your prejudice against my bloodline? Your need to control everything?" I sneered. "Or the fact that you used me as a stand-in?" "T never used you as a stand-in!" Lucas said, his voice rising, but he immediately caught himself. "Sorry, I shouldn't have raised my voice." That was new. The old Lucas would never have apologized for raising his voice. "Sophie, I know I hurt you," he said softly. "I know I don't deserve your forgiveness. But..." "But what?" "My wolf isn't whole without you." Pain flashed in his ---- eyes. ''For the past month, every day has been agony. Without your scent, I can't even sleep without having nightmares." "You deserve it." Lucas nodded. "Yes. I do." His willingness to admit fault was startling, completely lacking his former arrogance and impatience. "Sophie, I'm not forcing you to come back to me," he went on. "I just hope... I hope you'll let me take care of you. From a distance." "What does that mean?" "T'll protect you, but I won't interfere in your life," Lucas said, his gaze sincere. "I won't use my Alpha scent to control you, I won't limit your freedom. I just... want to make sure you're okay." It sounded moving. If I didn't know the real Lucas Stone. In "CEO, Those Twins Look Just Like You" by CrushReel, a single mother's life takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with a charming playboy who unknowingly holds a billionaire secret. As their worlds collide, secrets unravel and hearts intertwine in this captivating romance novel set in a modern office backdrop. Amidst the challenges of raising twins solo, our protagonist finds herself drawn to the enigmatic playboy, unaware of the wealth and complexity hidden beneath his charismatic facade. The juxtaposition of their contrasting lives sets the stage for a tale of unexpected love, where opposites truly attract in ways neither could have imagined. This sweet romance novel delves into themes of family, identity, and the power of love to transcend social boundaries. With its blend of heartwarming moments and intriguing twists, "CEO, Those Twins Look Just Like You" stands out as a refreshing take on the billionaire CEO trope, offering readers a glimpse into a world where love knows no bounds. Experience the magic of this ongoing story at CrushReel and dive into a narrative that promises to captivate your heart and leave you eagerly awaiting what unfolds next. Read online at CrushReel for a journey that will keep you hooked till the very end.