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..."

His eyes were red as he cut me off, "Ari, have I not been good to you? Do you think I'm not good enough for you? After all this time, can you really bear to

that I..." I couldn't finish the sentence. No

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, neither of us is

up at the moon and sighed. "Are you going back to the Shelman residence, or should I

I were drunk, nothing would sober me up more

and said

е

but I meant every word. When Tabitha gets a bit older, I'll bring her to visit you.

find someone who truly loves you. Don't waste your time on

your apology?! If you told me you had fallen in love with someone else, fine! I

happiness! Your

personally walking you down the aisle with a smile! As long as you're happy, there's nothing