Page 117 of Wild Tangled Hearts

Alex's faint smile carries a hint of amusement, as if he comprehends my doubts. "Bella," he begins, his words deliberate, "I had just told Angie that I was in love. Deeply. Passionately. Head over heels. Never looking back in love."

My heart skips a beat, realization dawning. He's not talking about Angie; he's talking about me. His gaze never leaves mine as he continues, "I love you."

Torn between my love for him and the need to trust him fully, I release a shaky breath, because I know that without trust, there can be no future for us.

"I love you too," I admit.

A soft smile graces his lips, and he moves closer, but I gently place my hands on his chest, halting him. My head shakes slightly, and I meet his gaze with a mix of longing and caution.

"Loving someone isn't enough," I whisper, my voice trembling with the weight of my words. "We need to trust each other."

Alex's eyes reflect understanding. We both bear the scars of past relationships, the pain of betrayal etched in our hearts. We know that rebuilding trust is a monumental task once it's shattered.

"I know," he replies, his voice sincere. "And I would never do anything on purpose to hurt you. As for Angie, I won't see her anymore." Alex's voice is firm. "I made it clear that she crossed a line, and our friendship is done. The only person that matters to me is you, Bella."

A cold gust of wind sweeps through the parking lot, causing me to shiver involuntarily. Alex steps closer, his strong arms wrapping around me, pulling me against his muscular chest. His touch is like a warm cocoon in the chill of the night, and it's impossible to deny the longing that surges within me.

He places a gentle palm on my cheek. "Bella," he whispers, a soft, reassuring murmur. "I love you so damn much, and it’s killing me that I hurt you. Forgive me."

With a tenderness that speaks volumes, he leans in, his lips meeting mine in a kiss that ignites a fire within me. It's a kiss that conveys all the love, longing, and promise that words alone could never capture. As the kiss deepens, I can taste the sweetness of his breath, and feel the gentle pressure of his lips molding to mine. I melt into his embrace, our bodies pressed together, every inch of us aligned.

Alex pulls back, hazel eyes searching mine. "If you want to leave, I'll drive you home," he offers.

I nod, a deep sense of relief washing over me. The thought of returning to the reception and possibly encountering Angie is something I can't bear at the moment.

As I glance down at my reflection in a nearby car window, I can't help but cringe at the state of my makeup. Tears have left their mark, and my carefully applied mascara and eyeliner are now smudged, my cheeks flushed and blotchy.

"I'll text Jess and let her know I'm headed home," I say.

I quietly slide into the passenger seat of Alex's truck, the engine humming to life as he starts it up. The ride back to my place is silent, but my thoughts are anything but quiet. Insecurity claws at the edges of my mind, not just because of what happened with Alex tonight, but because of the scars left by a past relationship, leaving me with a lingering fear of betrayal.

I glance at Alex, his profile illuminated by the soft glow of the dashboard lights. I know he carries his own insecurities, the wounds inflicted by Angie's betrayal etched deep into his heart. We're both a bit of a mess.

As Alex pulls up to my house, the engine falls silent. He clears his throat, breaking the silence. "I want you to know that what I said earlier...I meant every word."

I nod.

His gaze is locked on mine, searching for some reassurance. "I'm willing to do whatever it takes to earn your trust back. I never want to see you hurt like this again."

The night has been filled with emotional turmoil, and I am at a crossroads.

I could say goodnight, allow him to prove himself, and rebuild the trust that was broken. The thought of taking things slow, allowing time to mend the wounds of the past, is a tempting prospect.

It's the safer path.

But even as I think it, I know that love is never without risk. It's a daring journey that requires vulnerability and courage.

Do I have the courage to trust him completely? To invite him inside, allow him to hold me and reassure me with his touch and presence. Finding healing in his arms is undeniably tempting. Whatever option I choose, one thing is certain — I choose him.

Reader’s Choice:

What should Bella do next?

Be courageous and trust his sincerity. Invite him inside and find healing in his arms. Turn to this page.

Believe that he’s telling the truth. Trust takes time. Say goodnight, and let him prove his love and commitment. Turn to this page.

Chapter52

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