Chapter 103

Sofia. The air between us was thick with tension as Arsen walked away, his figure melting into the shadows of the dimly lit restaurant. I could feel all three of their eyes on me, waiting for some kind of explanation. I could feel Nikolai’s hand still resting on mine, his fingers slowly squeezing as though grounding himself, trying to stay calm. But I knew it was a struggle. I cleared my throat, trying to find the right words. “It’s not what you think.” Nial’s thumb stroked my wrist gently, his gaze soft yet insistent. “Then what is it, Love?” I took a steadying breath, trying to calm the rapid beat of my heart. “Arsen is... complicated. We’ve been through a lot together, but it’s not like that anymore.” My voice softened, remembering the time before. "He’s just—he's always been protective of me. I think that’s why he can’t let go." Nadei, ever the direct one, leaned forward, his intense green eyes narrowing on me. "So, he's not lurking around because he wants you? Because that's how i