Trouble in Paradise by Three Way

"Ariana Jones! Do you even realize what you're saying?"

For the first time, Pete yelled my full name. His face contorted, unable to hold back his emotions any longer.

He grabbed my shoulders tightly and shook me. "Did Nicholas say something to you? Did that bastard threaten you!"

"No, he didn't..."

I shook my head, unable to bear seeing such a proud man fall apart in front of me. My vision blurred when I noticed the tears in his eyes. I had no idea what to do anymore.

The better Pete was to me, the more guilty I felt. I couldn't return the same feelings he had for me. It was unfair to him.

Because whenever I saw Nicholas, the emotions he stirred were far stronger than anything I felt for Pete. I hadn't moved on from the past. Whether it was love or hate, those feelings weren't for Pete.

"I see you as a brother, a friend. If you're willing, I..."

you? Do you think I'm not good enough for you? After all this time, can you really bear to

to me that I..." I couldn't finish the

my nails dug into my palms, but I didn't feel the pain. If I could, I wished I could take all the hurt from him and bear

excuse is that?" Pete laughed helplessly. "Are you trying to

talk about this tomorrow when we've both calmed down. Right now,

at the moon and sighed. "Are you going back to the Shelman residence, or should I have Douglas arrange a room for

been more clear-headed than I am right now. Even if I were drunk, nothing would

lowered my gaze and said

е

bit older, I'll bring her to visit you. Please

day, you'll find someone who truly loves

told me you had fallen in

your happiness! Your

with a smile! As long as you're happy,