Chapter 0199

Ella POV

Alexander knew exactly what he was doing to me–the closeness of his body, the heat radiating from his workout, and the effortless way he carried himself. There was no way my reaction was unexpected, and I refused to let him see just how much he was affecting me.

Without overthinking, I placed both of my hands against his chest. The contact drew a startled sound from him, and for a moment, a heated look flickered in his eyes.

My pulse raced, but before I could give in to the pull between us, I shoved hard, sending him splashing backward into the water.

What I didn’t anticipate was his lightning–fast reflexes. His hands shot out, grabbing my waist as he fell, and I let out a yelp of surprise as we both plunged into the pool.

When I resurfaced, water streaming down my face, I couldn’t stop the helpless giggles that bubbled up.

Alexander didn’t let me enjoy the moment for long. He reached for my leg and tugged, sending me crashing back under the water with a startled squeal.

I emerged again, spluttering and pushing my hair out of my face, only to see him grinning victoriously, his Maughter rich and unapologetic.

of you I haven’t seen,” I commented, trying to sound composed despite the flush spreading across

say the same to you. I don’t think

before.”

really are getting to know each other,” I said, offering a small smile.

11

replied, though his expression turned slightly guarded.

the conversation away from anything that might become awkward. “So, tomorrow morning, we’re

right,” he confirmed. “I’ve spoken to Topher, and everything’s ready for the visit. He seemed quite excited

of him.”

expression soured slightly.

be friends. Did something happen between the two of you? Did you have a fight or something? You don’t seem all

quite so dramatic,” Alexander said, his tone measured. “Topher and I were friends when we were young, but… there are areas where I feel he hasn’t matured since then. I don’t know if you’ve noticed—or if you’ve chosen to ignore it but he’s been quite flirtatious with you. And I want to warn you, that’s likely

caught off guard. “Why would he be flirting with your

were obvious. “He enjoys bothering me. He finds it amusing to get

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