Ava blinked, her feet instinctively shuffling back as Nicholas's words sank in. Even in the dim glow of dusk, she could see the raw intensity of emotion flickering in his eyes.
She had fallen in love with Dylan in the past, but that love had left her scarred. She wouldn't dare to love someone again.
"I know you are not ready for it," he said quickly, sensing her hesitation. 'But I don't have much time.' He wanted to add this, but he paused, swallowing the words. "I am just asking you to pretend to be my girlfriend."
"I can't," she denied straight away. "Nicholas, I admire you – you are a good friend. Please don't do this. I don't want to lose a friend." She breathed out, regaining her composure. "Let's just forget this conversation ever happened. We'll continue working as partners, and we'll stay friends. That's what matters."
