Chapter 230

Arden took a shaky breath, stepping back just enough to let Mini breathe. “You think this is easy for me?” he asked, his voice raw. “I didn’t plan any of this. I didn’t expect to feel this way.” Mini crossed her arms, hugging herself tightly, trying to keep her voice steady. “You don’t get to play the victim here, Arden.” “I’m not,” he said softly. “But I can’t pretend I don’t feel anything either. You think I don’t hate myself for being confused? For hurting you, confusing you? I know I don’t deserve another chance—but I still want one.” Mini looked away, her heart pounding painfully. “You’re engaged. You brought another woman into the picture the moment you found out Elayna was married. You think that doesn’t make me question everything?” “I didn’t love her,” Arden said without hesitation. “I was trying to move on from something that never even started. And yes, maybe I was trying to prove something—to myself. But when it comes to you… it’s different.” Mini’s eyes filled with tears s