Chapter 43 The restaurant hummed softly with the gentle clink of cutlery and muted conversations.
James sat across from Amelia, his eyes searching hers for something that felt increasingly absent.
His fork toyed with the pasta on his plate, the meal he had painstakingly chosen barely touched.
Youve been quiet all evening, he said finally, his voice low but edged with concern.
Amelia glanced up, startled from her thoughts.
What? Oh, Im sorry, James.
Im just… distracted.
James leaned forward, his gaze steady.
Its not just tonight, Amelia.
Youve been distracted for weeks.
She opened her mouth to protest, but James cut her off gently.

Follow new episodes on the CrushnovelS.Com

No, hear me out.
I get it.
Youve been through a lotbetween the stalker, the kids, Ryanbut I feel like Im on the outside looking in.
Like Im competing with something I cant touch.
His words hit home, and guilt gnawed at her.
She placed her fork down carefully, trying to gather her thoughts.
Its not that, James, she said quietly.
I care about you so much.
But right now, the kids need me.
Theyve been through so much, and James raised a hand, his expression soft but firm.
I know youre putting them first.
I respect that.
But theres more to this, Amelia.
Is it Ryan? The question hung in the air like a dagger.
Amelias heart skipped, and she looked away, unable to meet his gaze.
Her silence was an answer in itself.
James sighed, leaning back in his chair.
Im not asking you to choose between me and your kidsthats not fair.
But I do need to know if Im competing with him.
Because if I am… He trailed off, his voice laden with disappointment.
Amelia shook her head quickly.
Its not what you think.
Ryan is part of the kids lives, but thats all it is.
James studied her carefully, his lips pressing into a thin line.
Ill take your word for it.
For now.
His tone softened as he reached across the table to take her hand.
I just want to make this work, Amelia.
You and me.
But we cant if youre not fully here.
I want it to work too, she said, her voice earnest, though her heart felt torn.
I just need time to sort through everything.
James gave her hand a squeeze before letting go.
I can give you time.
But I need to feel like Im not waiting for something thats never going to happen.
Next Chapter