Chapter 174 Lowering Expectations

Noel's eyes darkened. "So, that's how you see us? As strangers?" "Not exactly," Whitney countered. She drew a deep breath and delivered the most painful words she could find. "I'm just someone you sleep with, that's all." The statement was a double-edged sword, sharp enough to draw blood from both of them. Noel pursed his lips as he pinned Whitney with a stormy look. "You truly believe that?" A faint, self-deprecating smile curled Whitney's lips. "I know better than to pretend otherwise. I also know that men are often after the thrill of the chase. I shouldn't read too much into things and get my hopes up." In hindsight, she never figured Noel out. She could never understand his thoughts and actions, and he never told her anything. Could someone who truly liked her stay so guarded around her? Whitney paused and cleared her mind. "We're getting sidetracked. I'll admit Stella deserves to be punished for drugging you, and I understand if you don't want to forgive her." Noel closed t