Chapter 48

Alice could sense what he was contemplating, their faces drawing closer. However, just before James's lips could meet hers, Alice took a step back. James froze momentarily.

"I'm... I'm sorry," Alice apologized. Everything felt so right until that moment, but she found herself hesitating. What was she thinking?

Alice was puzzled by her own emotions, and James chuckled awkwardly, a hint of misery on his face. Seeing his expression, Alice felt a twinge of guilt. James closed his eyes briefly, and an awkward silence lingered between them.

"I'm sorry," Alice repeated, her voice tinged with regret.

James took a deep breath, suppressing his disappointment. He opened his eyes, and a faint smile appeared on his lips.

"Don't apologize, Alice. It's okay," James reassured her, attempting to ease the tension. He stepped back and gestured towards the car.

"Let's go," he said, trying to shift the focus away from the awkward moment. Alice nodded, grateful for his understanding.

During the drive, an un