Chapter 1675

Avery had seen men act clingy before—Caden used to do it all the time. As a kid, he'd insist on hugging her and wouldn't let go. He'd even choose to sleep in her bed over their mom's until he was about ten. But Mason? A grown man who was 11 years older than her was holding on to her like this and acting jealous of Caden? That caught her off guard. Mason's tired face made her pause. His tired expression tugged at her heartstrings. Avery pressed her lips together, trying to suppress a smile. It was impossible to resist when a man started acting all soft and clingy. She didn't say anything to address his behavior directly, but Mason pulled her into his arms again before she could move, resting his chin on her shoulder. Most of the time, Mason seemed untouchable, like he didn't need anyone or anything outside of work. But deep down, Avery could feel it—the loneliness. Despite his calm exterior, he must have felt the weight of isolation, seeing others with families and loved one