Ronan's POV

The question hung in the air between us.

“Is that why you love me? Because I remind you of him?”

I wanted to say no immediately. Wanted to deny it completely.

But Elias deserved honesty. Even if it hurt.

"At first," I said slowly, "maybe that was part of it. When I figured out what you were hiding, something in me responded. Recognition maybe. Or guilt. I don't know."

Elias's expression didn't change. Just waited for me to continue.

"But that's not why I love you now," I ...