Chapter 17

We finally reached my small apartment, and I hesitated at the doorstep. Turning to face him, I said firmly, "I think you should leave now." He raised an eyebrow, looking genuinely perplexed. "Seriously, Anna? I helped you, made sure you got home safely, and you won't even offer me a cup of coffee? That's just heartless." I let out a small, helpless shrug. I didn't want to drag him into my family's problems. Besides, I knew I wasn't someone who belonged by his side. "I do appreciate everything you've done—I really do," I said, my voice softening. "But…" I exhaled deeply, my chest tightening with emotion. "I'm not right for you, Lucian. My family situation is complicated, and you don't need to get involved. Please… don't tangle yourself up with me. I'm not good enough for you. You deserve someone better." Before I could finish, he abruptly shoved me against the door, his grip tightening around my jaw. His eyes blazed with intensity as he growled, "Who told you that you're not worthy of m