Aria's POV

His body visibly tensed at my question. His jaw clenched, and his eyes avoided mine. “Aria… I—”

“Don’t give me excuses,” I interrupted, keeping my voice firm even though. “I’ve waited. I’ve been patient, and I’ve never pressured you or brought it up. But every time you get close to doing it, you pull back. Why?”

He ran a hand through his hair, exhaling sharply. “It’s not that simple.”

“Then explain it to me,” I pressed. ...