36.

Ivan’s POV

I knew the answer I gave to her sudden question was wrong because it was a big fucking lie but what was I supposed to say? Was I supposed to tell her I love her and risk what happened the last time happening all over again?

Why did I tell her No when the right answer was Yes?

I’m head over heels in love with her but I just stupidly answered and that too quickly. I had no idea why but I knew it was because I thought that I was protecting myself but mostly her.

“Lexi,” I called and her eyes met mine as she lifted her gaze to meet me. Her facial expression had changed and I knew that she was hurt.

There was no point in me trying to explain things to her anymore. I tried saying something else but the moment I opened my mouth everything I wanted to say got stuck in my throat and I just wanted to kiss her.

I took a step closer to her but she moved away from me and I knew that that was cue to stay wherever I was standing. I wanted to apologize to her but I couldn’t find the right