Page 16 of Tormented Billionaire Romance Series

I sighed and softened my features. “Listen, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bite.”

“I wouldn't expect less from you, Clara.”

I planted my hand on my hip. “It's been a really rough week. I didn't mean to blow up at you like that.”

“Apology accepted.”

I went quiet as I stared at the boxes in front of me. They seemed to be piling endlessly. The more I stared at them, the more my back ached.

I lowered my gaze to my feet. “Anyway, I should get back to moving.”

“I'm sorry to hear about what happened.”

“And what did you hear?”

I looked at him and he shrugged lightly. “I mean, I heard you two broke up.”

“Right.”

“Can I help you move some things?”

I shook my head. “No, I have some people coming along soon. I'll let Gabe know you dropped by.”

“I really don't mind helping. I worked on a farm while I was in Switzerland.”

“How nice for you.”

“I say that to let you know I don't mind heavy-lifting by any means.”

I nodded. “Again, that's kind of you to offer, but I think we've got this.”

“Of course. I just wanted to offer.”

“Thanks.”

A veil of silence fell between us. I could practically touch it—that's how palpable it felt between our shifting bodies. I looked him over again.

He's so much more handsome than years ago, I thought with guilt.But I hate seeing him. I hate that he's here. Why is he here now of all times?

“Well, I should get going,” Levon blurted. He ran a hand through his short black hair. “Just call me if you need more muscle, okay?”

“Sure thing.”

“Alright, take care.”

He lingered for a second before heading for the door. I followed after him and locked the bolt, inhaling the fading scent of his cologne. He was wearing my favorite: sage. It almost felt like a purposeful attack as if by wearing it he was reminding me of all the time we had spent together.

Well, that's old news. And old news dies with time.

I wandered back to the living room, planted myself on the ground, and dropped my head into my hands.

I groaned. “Why didn't anyone tell me Levon was back?”

“Didn't you expect him to come back?”

“No,” I growled over my shoulder. I squeezed my eyes shut and lowered my voice. “Sorry, Laura.”

“Don't sweat it, Clara. I can't even imagine how you feel.”

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