#Chapter 98: A Challenge

Olivia “If you have such strong feelings for me, why don’t you take me out instead of getting so jealous?” Nathan’s eyes were wide. Mine were, too, shocked by my own words. As I waited for Nathan to respond, his stunned silence permeated the room, deepening the tension. Finally, he gathered himself and opened his mouth to speak, his eyes never leaving mine. “Olivia, I…” he started, his voice barely more than a whisper. “I don't have those kinds of feelings for you. I was only...I was just protecting you from your ex.” My heart sank at his words, a lump forming in my throat. His denial felt like a slap in the face. But I refused to let him see how much he had hurt me. I squared my shoulders, forcing a small smile onto my face. “Jealousy is a strong emotion, Nathan,” I reminded him. “People don’t get jealous over just anyone. If you were just protecting me over my ex, then what did Levi have to do with it?” He met my gaze, his eyes clouded with conf