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.

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

no matter how obvious his hints were, I had always managed to dodge the subject. But being pushed

explain so much? He didn't

staying by your side the whole time." Pete's voice was heavy with emotion,

turned around and let out

someone else

watching him. Seeing how much

have to

nothing happened between us. We just caught up briefly and discussed some work

went to check daycares

to ask about my life. I'm telling

before that I'm not always great at showing how much I appreciate you, I'm not