Chapter 97: Lust and Lies

Lizzie's POV: "You are beautiful," he said to Lizzie, looking deeply into her eyes. Lizzie felt her cheeks flush as Jack's words hit her like a punch in the gut. She wasn't used to hearing such compliments, and she wasn't sure how to respond. She looked down at her hands, fiddling with her coffee cup. "Thank you," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "You're very sweet." Jack reached across the table and took her hand in his. "I'm serious," he said, his eyes never leaving hers." You're the most beautiful woman I've ever met." Lizzie felt herself melting under his gaze. She had never felt this way before, and she was completely unprepared for it. She wanted to say something, anything, but her mind was a jumble of emotions. Finally, she managed to speak. "You're not so bad yourself," she said, her voice still trembling. Jack smiled and leaned in closer. "I'm glad you think so," he said, his voice low and husky. "I'd like to get to know you better." Lizzie's heart