Genevieve's POV
The question lingered in the air between us. Heavy and loaded.
My pulse hammered against my throat.
I maintained my composure. Kept my tone level. "What about us?"
He moved forward. Not invading my space but close enough that I had to lift my chin to hold his gaze.
"I need an answer to something," he said. "And I need complete honesty."
"I have never lied to you, Kaelen."
"Haven't you?"
The words hit like a slap. The impact reverberated through the space separating us.
Something icy formed in my chest. "What exactly are you implying?"
"I'm asking whether you're withholding information from me." His stare bore into mine. "Something I should understand about your real reasons for being here."
My windpipe constricted. "I'm here because I assisted your mother. Because I had no other options. You're aware of this."
"I know the story you've given me."
"And you believe I'm deceiving you?"
