Chapter 121.

Amelia's POV

I had been sending mixed signals, clinging to a fragile hope while simultaneously pushing him away with the label of "employer-employee."

His words, harsh as they were, carried an undeniable truth.

"I…" I stammered, searching for a defense that wouldn't crumble under the weight of his accusations. "Maybe… maybe you're right," I admitted reluctantly. "Perhaps I did send mixed signals."

His blue eyes narrowed, searching my face. "Perhaps?" he echoed, his voice still laced with anger. "You were the one pulling away when things got intense, Amelia. You were the one who insisted on this strict employer-employee boundary."

A wave of guilt washed over me. He was right again. Every time he'd tried to bridge the gap, I'd retreated, clinging to the fragile line I'd drawn to protect myself. Fear, a leftover from the painful ending of our past relationship, had held me back.

"I..." I stammered, my voice barely above a whisper. The carefully constructed wall of anger that had shielded