"What are you doing here, Cameron? Didn't I tell you to stay away? Why are you stalking me?" Ava's voice was sharp, but inside, she felt her heart race. The whirlwind of emotions inside her, anger, frustration, betrayal—threatened to overwhelm her. She had buried the pain he caused, but now, with him standing just a few feet away, it all came rushing back.
Cameron stepped out from the shadows, his face soft, concern etched across his features. "You didn't want to see my face, Ava. I understand that. But I couldn't just leave without knowing you were okay. I was worried." His voice was steady but tinged with regret.
Ava's fists clenched instinctively, and she crossed her arms in front of her, trying to block out the effect his words had on her. She couldn't let him get close again, couldn't allow herself to fall for his charm. He had hurt her too deeply.
