Chapter 369: Unexpected Hurdle
Kaiden stepped forward with a calm expression adorning his features. He extended his hand toward Alexandra, offering her the same steady presence he had shown countless times before.
The blond looked at it for a long moment. Her lips parted slightly as though she wanted to say something, but no words came. Slowly, almost reluctantly, she pulled away from Nyx’s embrace and took a small step toward him.
Her hand rose, hovering in the air. She tried to reach for his.
But just before her fingers could close around his palm, her arm stopped. A tremor ran through her wrist. Her eyes widened, and horror flashed across her face, looking as if she was betraying herself.
"Huh?" The sound escaped her in a shocked gasp. She stared at her own trembling hand as if it belonged to someone else. "W-Why...?" Her voice broke, and panic laced each syllable. Tears started spilling before she could stop them. "Why can’t I...?"
The moment stretched, raw and painful.
Kaiden didn’t make any drastic motions. He didn’t let offense or pride show on his face. Instead, he simply lowered his hand and stepped back, giving the troubled woman space. At the same time, his expression was that of understanding and compassion, gentle. Then he turned his head toward Nyx and gave a small nod.
Nyx was beside Alexandra in a heartbeat, pulling her back into a hug. Her tone was soft and etched with worry. "It’s alright, Alex. Because of that vile pig, you might’ve grown some hidden distrust for men without realizing it."
"No!" Alexandra cried instantly in protest, shaking her head against Nyx’s shoulder. "That can’t be! I know Kaiden is nothing like Maximilian! I know he’s a great man! You trust him, and you’re my best friend. I believe in that! I really do!"
Her words tumbled out in a desperate rush, sounding as if she was pleading with the gods themselves to let her touch him.