Chapter 64

RAINA

Falling for Alex again was terrifying. I didn’t want to admit it, not even to myself. He hadn’t said anything about us—no promises, no confessions—but his actions were speaking loud and clear. Every protective gesture, every thoughtful moment, it all chipped away at the walls I’d built around my heart.

Since Nathan’s confrontation in the parking lot a few days ago, Alex had taken it upon himself to look out for me. He picked me up after work and dropped me off at home, no matter how late. During lunch breaks, he would either show up with food or take me somewhere to eat. And every evening, without fail, he ensured I had as much time as possible to speak with Liam and Ava.

I couldn’t ignore how much I appreciated his efforts. But despite everything he did to make me feel safe, there was something gnawing at me, something I couldn’t shake.

My body didn’t feel right.

It wasn’t just the exhaustion—that was to be expected given everything going on. It