Chapter 10: Clearing the Air
They sat on the couch in awkward silence for a moment, the hum of the rain filling the space between them. Caden fidgeted with his hands, trying to gather his thoughts.
"I know you probably hate me right now," he began, his voice low.
Ayla raised an eyebrow. "I don't hate you."
He glanced at her, hopeful. "No?"
"No." She leaned back, crossing her arms. "But I'm mad. And confused. And maybe…a little hurt."
Caden winced. "I get that. And I'm sorry, Ayla. I should've handled things better."
"Yeah," she said softly. "You should have."
He sighed, running a hand through his damp hair. "Look, Sabrina showed up out of nowhere. I didn't invite her. And honestly? Seeing you walk away like that…it scared me. More than anything."
Ayla looked down, her expression unreadable. "Why didn't you tell me about her before?"
"Because she's not important. You are." He leaned forward, his voice full of sincerity. "I don't care about her, Ayla. I care about you."
Ayla searched his face, her walls slowly crumbling. "You really mean that?"
"I do." He gave her a small, nervous smile. "You have no idea how much."