The Dark Side Of Fate by Karima Sa'ad Usman novel Chapter 351

~Liam~

Holding Josephine in my arms felt right. I knew I needed to make a move because there would be no right time.

We had been interrupted three times already. I doubted anytime would be right enough to show my intentions.

I thought she would push me away or stop me, but when she responded, Alex and I were at peace immediately.

There was hope that it would work out. Maybe she had feelings too. Only time will tell, but I chose to savour that moment with her in my arms to assure her that there was nothing between Sophia and me.

As Josephine gracefully left the dining room, she appeared unfazed, yet Alex sensed a hint of unease. Observing her take the staircase turn instead of heading for the restroom, I knew something was amiss.

I planned to address the Sophia teases with my cousins. Since it bothered Josephine so much, I could not let them continue.

As I held Josephine's hand against my chest, I could see the bewilderment in her eyes. In that moment, words seemed insufficient to convey my emotions. My heartbeat became the melody, expressing what words couldn't.

"I'm going to talk to them about stopping the Sophia jokes," I said, but Josephine shook her head in response.

"No need, Li. I believe I can handle it," she replied, avoiding eye contact with me.

Her words surprised me, and I felt a mix of relief and concern.

"Now that I know there isn't much between you and her, I can handle it," she continued. "But what happens when she returns? Despite my feelings, I genuinely wish her well and hope we find her. What will you do then? You were planning to confess your feelings to her the night she disappeared. What happened to those feelings, Li? Did they vanish with her, or did you simply bury them?" she asked, taking a step back, her question bearing undeniable validity.

Josephine's eyes shimmered with fear, clearly bracing herself for whatever I might say. Yet, I found myself at a loss for words as well.

"Jo," I started, but she shook her head, urging me to be honest.

"You have to tell me, Li. What happened to your feelings for her?" she insisted, seeking an answer.

Just as I was about to respond, Justin's voice echoed in my mind, interrupting our conversation.

"Everyone should gather in my office. We're meeting with the former Gamma and Delta now, and then we're heading to Grandma's house to investigate the crime," Justin announced, diverting our attention.

Josephine wasted no time, swiftly grabbing her jacket before I could utter a word, leaving the question about my feelings unanswered for now.

"Jo," I managed to say, but she shook her head, clearly unconvinced.

"You don't have your feelings sorted, Li," she stated as she put on her jacket. As she made to leave, I rushed to her side, reaching out to hold her and prevent her from walking away.

"No, Jo, I really do have my feelings sorted out. Honestly, I do," I pleaded, desperate to make her understand.

"I did have feelings for Sophia, but I never acted on them. I never told her how I felt. The plan was to confess that night, but it never happened," I explained, attempting to draw her closer by gently tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. However, Josephine deftly evaded my touch, making it clear she needed space.

"Please, Jo," I pleaded, gazing earnestly into her eyes.

"All I can say is that it was different with you. It took me so long to realise my feelings for Sophia, but it didn't take much time at all for me to fall for you. Everything about us feels right, even destined, Jo. Don't let Sophia's shadow cast doubt on what we have. Whatever I felt for Sophia, it vanished before we arrived at Grizlo; I just hadn't found the right words or moments to express my feelings to you. I doubt I ever will. With you, words seem to escape me, and all I can do is show you how I feel through my actions. Please," I implored, searching her eyes for reassurance.

My heart pounded with fear as I waited for her response. Then, in a moment that lifted the weight of uncertainty, she leaned into my arms, resting her head against my chest. As I held her close, I could feel the gentle warmth of her tears, and it felt like a moment of emotional release and connection between us.