Chapter 59: I’m Human
Alex leaned back in his chair, studying her. Though he wanted to consider all she was saying but, she had hurt him with her words.
"Emma..." he began, trying to find the right words to tell her it was best they remained as they were now since he wasn't sure he wouldn't fall for her at the end of this.
Before he could continue, she interrupted. "I enjoy your company, Alex. I don't want us to keep avoiding each other, please. Can we stop this?"
After he left the house that morning without checking in on her or even leaving a message with Christopher, leaving her to feel alone and neglected, there was no way she would leave without resolving things.
His eyes darkened slightly. "But that was what you wanted. You wanted us to define our boundaries. You said this was only an arrangement and that I was overstepping. That's why I'm giving you your space," he said, and Emma sighed in exasperation.
"I know what I said," Emma admitted, her voice quieter now as she drew closer. "But that's why I'm here. To tell you that I don't want those boundaries to keep pushing us apart. After you left today, I realized I very much want your care."
Alex sighed, running a hand through his dark hair, making the few gray strands even more pronounced.
"Emma, I'm human too. You can't expect me to just welcome you back every time after you push me away. I get the pain you've been through, but not everyone has bad intentions like Jake."
Emma looked down, guilt washing over her. "I know that now. And I'll do better. I promise." She glanced up, her eyes softening as she added with a small smile, "Please forgive me?"