Burn Me Once, Burn With Me novel Chapter 51

Cameron Lockridge quickly composed himself, rubbing his chin as he considered, "Cucumbers? Maybe we should pick up some fish too. I hear it's good for new moms—full of nutrients."

They chatted casually as they shopped, their easy banter and synchronized steps giving off the cozy vibe of a young couple strolling through a weekend farmer's market, their little one in tow. The scene brimmed with the quiet warmth of family—if you didn't notice Cameron's ears, tinged pink with embarrassment.

From an apartment window nearby, a pair of steely eyes tracked their every move, as if trying to burn a hole through the two figures below.

Cassian watched, his gaze dark and stormy.

A tangled mess of emotions seethed within him—restless, angry, barely restrained, like a wild animal caged and desperate to break free. Every fiber of his being wanted to storm down and snatch Ruby away.

She was supposed to be his—his Mrs. Veyne.

His icy stare shifted, settling on Cameron's youthful silhouette, now laced with a dangerous edge.

Suddenly, Ruby shivered, rubbing her arm as a chill prickled over her skin.

Oblivious, Cameron was focused on the produce, meticulously selecting the freshest vegetables and fish. When he was satisfied, he hefted two large bags—one in each hand—clearly determined to carry everything himself.

"Rattles! Five bucks each!" a vendor called out just as they turned to leave, shaking a bright red rattle for all to see.

Mira's eyes lit up. She reached eagerly for the dancing rattle.

The vendor's face brightened as well, seizing the opportunity. "Looks like your little one loves it! How about getting her one, Mom?"

Ruby hesitated, but before she could answer, Cameron was already pulling out his wallet.

The vendor watched him with anticipation, reaching into his bag for a brand-new rattle, ready to make the trade.

Just then—"Ring, ring—"

Ruby's phone chimed from her pocket. She glanced at the caller ID and froze.

Mom.

Suddenly, his grip tightened—so much that the handle of the rattle nearly snapped. He caught himself, loosening his fingers and checking to make sure it wasn't broken, feeling an odd sense of relief when it remained intact.

He paused, confused by his own reaction. Why did he care if the rattle was damaged? Was it simply because a baby had liked it—a baby that wasn't even his?

Cassian looked out the window again, just in time to see Cameron making Ruby laugh. She smiled, her eyes—soft and warm, like a gentle spring rain—crinkling at the corners as she gazed at Cameron. Even the baby in her arms watched him with wide, sparkling eyes.

The three of them, walking together, looked for all the world like a picture-perfect family.

Cassian's breath caught in his throat.

His gaze hardened, drilling into Cameron, then shifting slowly to the baby.

That child—there was no denying it—looked just like him.

And in that moment, Cassian could almost hear the answer pounding in his chest.