Chapter 23

• I head straight to my room once we arrive, not looking back to see if Alex was following. I need some space to process the hurtful accusations thrown at me earlier. I head to the bathroom and hop into the shower, letting the warm water soothe my frayed nerves. After a quick shower, I towel off and walk out to see Alex sitting on the bed, his presence unexpected.
• He rises to his feet upon seeing me. "I forgot to tell you earlier," he begins, his voice gentle yet hesitant, breaking the silence that hangs heavy in the room.
• I pause in my tracks on my way to the walk-in closet, turning to face him with my arms crossed protectively. "I'm listening," I say, my tone guarded.