Their Secret Obsession by Pippa Moon

Chapter 0286

"Probably a good idea," he agreed gently. But as he spoke, I caught a glimpse in his eyes a flicker of something unspoken. His words said one thing, but his eyes told a different story. Was that regret? Longing? For a moment, I wondered if he was battling the same inner conflict as I was. Maybe he wanted me too but felt he couldn't act on it. The possibility both comforted and frustrated me. I took a few steps before stopping, the weight of loneliness pressing down on me. An overwhelming emptiness settled in my chest, a hollow ache that threatened to consume me. I felt adrift, untethered from everything and everyone. All the anger and bravado faded, leaving behind a raw vulnerability I couldn't escape. I didn't want to be alone-not tonight. I yearned for connection, for someone to hold onto, if only for a moment.

"Chase?" I called over my shoulder.

"Yes?" he responded, his tone patient and sexy as hell.

I turned to face him, allowing vulnerability to seep into my expression. I let my gaze soften, meeting his eyes beneath lowered lashes.

"Do you think... do you think they still care about me?" My voice wavered, the question hanging heavily between us, but honestly, I wanted to see if THAT was holding him back. I watched him intently, searching for any sign that might reveal his true feelings. If he thought I was still connected to Knox and Kane, maybe that was why he was keeping his distance. Perhaps if I could dispel that notion, he might let his guard down. This was as much a test as it was a plea for reassurance. I needed to know what was holding him back.

expressed, his tone gentle. "But perhaps not in the way you want them to." He considered me carefully, clearly wanting to see if his words broke me; they did. But I wouldn't

I didn't really. How could caring

yourself, Connie," he added

mix of gratitude and desperation swirling within me. Maybe I couldn't find solace with

Be brave," Phina laughed as

could take care of me," I suggested, my voice barely

taken aback. I closed the distance between us swiftly, placing a hand

not?" I pressed, letting my fingers trace the contours of his muscles. "We're both alone tonight. Why not help each other forget,

fe

of happiness?" I looked up at him our faces mere inches apart. His eyes searched mine, conflict evident in

chest. "I can't," he said firmly, but it was too late; his face had given him away. "It wouldn't be fair