Page 151 of What Comes Around

It didn’t work.

The moment the bed dipped, his arm moved, reaching back for me on instinct. His hand found my waist and pulled, drawing me down before I could brace myself.

“Ashley,” he murmured, voice rough with sleep.

I landed against him, my back to his chest, his arm wrapping around me as he settled me into place like it was where I belonged.

“You’re cold,” he said quietly, his lips brushing my shoulder.

I swallowed, staring ahead for a moment before speaking.

“Apple terminated the pregnancy.”

He went still behind me.

“She signed the consent forms herself,” I continued. “No emergency. No miscarriage.”

His arm tightened slightly around me.

“She’s already posting,” I said. “Saying I killed the baby.”

Even saying it felt absurd.

His hand began to move slowly along my arm. “I’ll take care of it,” he said.

I turned in his hold, shifting just enough to face him, my hand bracing lightly against his chest.

“Knox—”

“No.” His voice was quiet, but final. “You’ve dealt with enough. I’m handling this.”

I held his gaze, then exhaled slowly, the fight draining out of me before I could hold onto it. I didn’t have the energy for this anymore. Not for Apple, not for the endless mess she created, not for the constant need to stay one step ahead. Lately, I’d been feeling more worn out, the pregnancy leaving me tired even after a full night’s sleep.

So I let it go and chose to trust Knox. When he said he’d take care of something, he meant it.

Nathan drove us to work not long after. About two hours into the workday, the full security footage from my house was released through his PR team, his statement following minutes later.

KNOX SINCLAIR — OFFICIAL STATEMENT

Recent allegations made publicly by Ms. Apple Richards regarding an incident outside a private residence are false.

The full, unedited security footage has been released and clearly shows that Ms. Apple Richards was not touched, pushed, or harmed by Ms. Ashley Richards at any time. The claims being circulated online are demonstrably untrue.

Additionally, a court-admissible DNA test conducted by an independent, accredited laboratory has confirmed that I am not the father of Ms. Richards’ child.

The spread of knowingly false accusations, particularly those intended to damage reputations and cause emotional harm, is deeply concerning.

I hope Ms. Apple Richards receives the professional support and care she needs.

Ashley Richards is my fiancée. She has my full support, and I will continue to ensure her safety and well-being.

I ask that our privacy be respected as we move forward.

— Knox Sinclair

I read the statement twice behind my desk, my eyes catching on the same words both times. My fiancée.

I was still staring at the screen when Priya’s chair scraped back. She was already halfway to her feet, leaning over the divider with a grin that made it impossible to pretend I hadn’t seen it.