Their Secret Obsession (A Reverse Harem) by Pippa Moon novel Chapter 286

"Probably a good idea," he agreed gently. But as he spoke, I caught a glimpse in his eyes—a flicker of something unspoken. His words said one thing, but his eyes told a different story. Was that regret? Longing? For a moment, I wondered if he was battling the same inner conflict as I was. Maybe he wanted me too but felt he couldn't act on it. The possibility both comforted and frustrated me.

I took a few steps before stopping, the weight of loneliness pressing down on me. An overwhelming emptiness settled in my chest, a hollow ache that threatened to consume me. I felt adrift, untethered from everything and everyone. All the anger and bravado faded, leaving behind a raw vulnerability I couldn't escape. I didn't want to be alone—not tonight. I yearned for connection, for someone to hold onto, if only for a moment.

"Chase?" I called over my shoulder.

"Yes?" he responded, his tone patient and sexy as hell.

I turned to face him, allowing vulnerability to seep into my expression. I let my gaze soften, meeting his eyes beneath lowered lashes.

"Do you think... do you think they still care about me?" My voice wavered, the question hanging heavily between us, but honestly, I wanted to see if THAT was holding him back. I watched him intently, searching for any sign that might reveal his true feelings. If he thought I was still connected to Knox and Kane, maybe that was why he was keeping his distance. Perhaps if I could dispel that notion, he might let his guard down. This was as much a test as it was a plea for reassurance. I needed to know what was holding him back.

"I think they care in their own way," he expressed, his tone gentle. "But perhaps not in the way you want them to." He considered me carefully, clearly wanting to see if his words broke me; they did. But I wouldn't be letting him see it. I swallowed hard through the pain, the lump in my throat making it difficult to breathe.

"I see," I whispered, though I didn't really. How could caring not be enough?

"Take care of yourself, Connie," he added softly, clearly dismissing me.

I met his gaze, a mix of gratitude and desperation swirling within me. Maybe I couldn't find solace with Knox or Kane, but perhaps...