Silence crept between them after their lips, once joined, finally parted. The sound of their racing hearts felt so real, filling the quiet space. Their warm breaths mingled, too close, too intoxicating for either of them to move away.

Neil’s gaze locked on Lena, sharp yet clouded with confusion.

“Why?” His voice was hoarse, as if something was stuck in his throat.

Lena blinked slowly, brows furrowing. “Why… what do you mean?”

“Why won’t you be honest?” Neil pressed, ...