"Figure what out?" I step closer. "You marry me instead? Take Leo's place?"
He runs his hands through his hair. “That.. that’s not possible… fuck, I don’t know… I just, I can’t stand seeing you like this…”
"Why?" My voice cracks. "Why do you care?"
He doesn't answer. Just looks at me with those dark eyes, and I see everything he's not saying.
Because you're mine. Because that's my baby. Because I can't let you go.
"This is impossible," I whisper.
"I know."
"We can't—there's no way—"
"I know that too."
But he's closer now. Close enough that I can smell his cologne, feel his heat.
One step. One step and I could kiss him. And oh, even with everything happening, I want to kiss him.
I feel like I need to kiss him.
"Aurora?" Dad steps onto the terrace, cigar in hand.
"There you are." He sees Axel and pauses.
"J-Just getting some air," I manage.
"I can see that." He lights his cigar, takes a puff. "Your future father-in-law and I have been discussing. We're hosting a charity gala in two days. You and Leo will attend, of course."
Of course.
"What's the charity?" I ask.
"Does it matter?" Dad smiles. "It's all a front anyway. But we’ll put on a good show."
Money laundering disguised as philanthropy. Classic.
"I'll be there."
"Good. Wear something elegant. The press will be there." He turns to Axel. "Walk with me, brother. We need to discuss security arrangements."
Axel glances at me once and follows my father inside.
I'm left alone on the terrace, heart racing, body aching for something I can't have.
I touch my stomach, still flat, still hiding our secret.
I'm sorry,I think.I'm so sorry you're stuck in this mess.
But there's no way out.
Not for me.
Not for Axel.
Not for any of us.
