Paul had hurt me, yes, but I couldn't bear the thought of him suffering, even if it was a consequence of his own actions.
"But, Elena, I have a problem," Derek admitted, his voice tinged with frustration. It was clear that he was conflicted, torn between his desire to protect me and the difficult decision I had just presented.
Yes," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. The weight of my secret and the decision we had made hung heavily in the room, but I knew I had to stay resolute.
Derek's displeasure was palpable, and his frustration was etched on his face. "I don't like it when you show concern for him," he expressed, his words laced with disappointment. I swallowed hard, feeling the tension between us. I had anticipated his reaction, but I couldn't deny my own conflicted emotions.
