Trouble in Paradise by Three Way

I raised my arm nervously and sniffed my clothes, glancing at Pete. "What's wrong? Do I smell like something?"

Pete leaned in to sniff again, forcing me to back up until I was pressed against the window. Feeling embarrassed and annoyed, I snapped, "Pete! Don't get so close to me!" He straightened up with his hands on his hips. His face was dark when he said, "Smoke, alcohol, and... The scent of some random man."

I froze. I didn't expect him to actually find out.

I mumbled, "Maybe it's the driver. I took a cab today. I'm still not familiar with the roads here, so I didn't drive myself.

"No wonder Tabitha kept trying to squirm out of my arms earlier. I'll wash up after you leave."

My words made his heart clench with urgency. He could no longer remain composed.

Pete's lips trembled, his eyes turning red. His voice, although steady, carried a heavy weight as he called out my name.

"Ariana, you're hiding something from me." He knew me well enough.

to him, always wanting to keep my distance. It was Pete who had relentlessly found reasons to see me, using both work

hints were, I had always managed to dodge the subject. But

had nothing to do with him, why would I explain so much? He didn't dare continue

we leave, I'm staying by your side the whole time." Pete's voice was heavy with emotion, his eyes

and let out

understand how, after all these years of waiting for me, someone else had swooped in so suddenly. Did he realize

Seeing how much he was hurt because

have to

us. We just caught up briefly and

to

you this because you have any right to ask about my life. I'm telling you because I consider

not blind. I know how much you've done for me. That's