Trouble in Paradise (Arianna and Nicholas) novel Chapter 607

Nicholas' bright eyes dimmed instantly, a wave of dejection washing over him.

"I haven't eaten anything. I've been in back-to-back meetings and barely even had time for water. Can't you just keep me company?"

At that moment, I felt the fragile understanding between us was once again on the verge of breaking. I couldn't help but remind him, "Tabitha isn't home. You don't need to act."

"Who's acting?"

Nicholas' voice was hoarse as he continued, "When have I ever acted in front of you? When I laugh, cry, feel joy or sadness, you've seen it all. I've lost all my pride, my image. What's left to pretend? Back when we first got married, that was acting.

"I'd straighten my back, clench my teeth, and present the perfect version of myself to you. I didn't dare get too close or touch you. I was afraid I'd fall for you.

"Yet, deep down, I selfishly wanted you to like me a little more. I enjoyed having a wife who admired me. That was acting!"

Before I could respond, Nicholas scooped me off the couch, wrapping his arms tightly around my waist.

Resting his chin on my shoulder, he murmured with a hint of grievance, "Back then, I acted too much. Now, I just want to show you the real me. I regret wasting all that time we could've had."

Nicholas said so much in one breath that my mind stalled, my response dry and stiff. "You don't have to go this far for me. We're only doing this for Tabitha..."

"I'm doing this for you even more!" Nicholas cut me off.

"If Tabitha wasn't your child, why would I care about her at all? She only exists because of you! No matter how much I love her, she'll always come second to you!"

"Nicholas…" I tried to interrupt, but he pressed on.

"I've read every single post on your Facebook. Over and over again. You never mentioned my name, but I know you were talking about me! You loved me for so many years.

"If you, as a young girl, could hold on to that love, why do you think I can't, as a man? What are you so afraid of? Why won't you believe in me?"