PTE

eavy and hanging in the air between us. However, my thoughts were elsewhere, caught in a s

The warmth of our bodies entwined in the dark, the feel of James's hands, the fire in his eyes, the dance of our tongues, the ful

h of my predicament hit me hard. My acts caused me much shame and guil

voice broke through the haze of my thoughts

ds cutting through my chest. "Break up?" I repeated

nk this is working anymore. We're both going in differ

words to respond. "But... But I love you," I finally manag

ould almost hear the weight of his own sorrow echoing through the s

he corners of my eyes, the wave of feeling tha

t if you're willing to do the same with me," I whispered,

easy as you s

d formed between us. I hung up the phone with a heavy heart, and while I was reeling

g in the doorway, her eyes widen

appened to you?" Paige exclaimed, her

ious under her scrutinizing gaze. "It's nothing," I muttered, hopi

wing as she took in the sight of me. "Nothing? Are you kidding me?" she scoffed, her tone drippi

aught up in my own turmoil that I hadn't even bothered to check my reflection before facin

I protested weakly, my vo

night with a man who isn't your mate," she hissed, her words laced with anger. "Do you have any idea what

ong, but to hear it spoken aloud b

ed. "I was confused, Paige. I

h fury. "That's not good enough," she spat, her voice cold and unforgiving. "You knew the co

ntentionally do anything to ruin dad's rep

xpression hardening. "Sorry isn't going to fix this," she said, her voice steely. "You've mad

ing towards me, her phone held aloft in her outstretched hand.

to do. "No, Paige, please," I begged, desper

er the screen as she snapped pictures and recorded vid

of being exposed for all to see was too much to bear or think about. How could I

ck to my senses, "Did you drug me last night?" I asked

esitation flickering in her eyes. However, it was soon replaced by a

her tone dripping with disdain. "You want to