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.

feeling indebted to him, always wanting to keep my distance. It was Pete who had relentlessly found

I had always managed to dodge the subject. But being pushed by

why would I explain so much?

the whole time." Pete's voice was heavy with emotion,

around and let

these years of waiting for me, someone else had swooped in so suddenly. Did he realize too

watching him. Seeing how much he was hurt because

don't have

met Nicholas today, but nothing happened between us. We just caught up briefly and discussed some work matters. It

to check daycares

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

how much I appreciate you, I'm not blind. I know how much you've done for me.