Chapter 12 - Wes
 
 I’d pushed too fast, and paid the price. Why had I bothered to hope that Cody would be willing to hold my hand when just a brush of fingers had sent us both into overdrive so soon before?
 
 It was a stupid mistake, and set back all the progress that we’d made.
 
 Still, there had been something in Cody’s expression that told me he was conflicted about his lack of reciprocation.
 
 I decided that the only viable option was to give him some space. I informed him and Donna that I’d return Monday afternoon, once my virtual meetings were complete.
 
 Three-and-a-half days apart from him would be torture, but I would endure it if it was what he needed.
 
 At least it gave me a chance to start another necessary task: speak with a realtor.
 
 Even if Cody never accepted me, there was no way I could live hundreds of miles from him. Part of me would always worry.
 
 I hated the thought that he might find another alpha, but I needed to know that he was safe… and happy.
 
 Luckily I wasn’t to the point where I had to give up on him yet. That hesitation over lunch proved it. If I really didn’t have a chance then he’d have walked out or told me to fuck off.
 
 Cody wanted me as much as I wanted him, I could see it. I just had to get past whatever was holding him back.