"Stop staring at me, okay? I'm not going to break down and start sobbing hysterically," Serena muttered, her voice tense as she deliberately averted her gaze from Aiden's scrutinizing eyes. The weight of his attention made her feel exposed, vulnerable in a way she wasn't ready to admit.
Instead, as they sat on the balcony, she chose to focus on the night sky, the soft glow of the stars providing a comforting distraction. She would much rather watch the clouds slowly drift by than face the uncomfortable truth hanging between them.
Aiden, leaning back slightly, didn't press her further. "Well, I'm glad you're not crying," he murmured with a slight smirk. "I didn't bring a handkerchief to lend you, anyway."
