ALPHA'S HUMAN SURROGATE 41

CATRIONA

I rolled over in bed, wanting to snuggle into Jayden, but his side was empty. I opened my eyes—yes, I was alone. I glanced at the wall clock. It was late. 4 a.m.

I got out of bed and went to the bathroom. When I came back, I sat on the edge of the bed. Where could he be at this hour?

As restlessness grew, I decided to go out and look for him. Something could have happened. I can’t just sit here.

Before I could leave, the door creaked open. Jayden stepped inside—barely. He seemed surprised to see me awake.

“Why are you up at this hour?” he asked, closing the door behind him.

“I should be the one asking that. Where were you, Jayden? What are you doing out this late?”

“Catriona, I’m a grown man. I don’t need to be questioned like a child by a woman.”

That stung. “As your woman, who shares th……