Chapter 21. Love-Making

Nathan’s POV

I didn’t know how to react the moment Evelyn asked me that question. The moment I saw her expression — that raw, unfiltered pain on her face — I froze.

She looked shattered. Completely broken. And I knew, deep down, I was the one who caused it.

I couldn’t speak.

I couldn’t even move.

What was I supposed to say? What words could possibly make this better without breaking her more?

She stood there, eyes wide, waiting for something — an answer, a confession, a lie, maybe even an apology. But I didn’t know what she wanted to hear.

And God help me, I couldn’t look her in the eyes and tell her I felt nothing for her. I couldn’t be that cruel.

“Tell me, Nathan,” she whispered, stepping closer. “Look me in the eyes and tell me. Do you really feel nothing for me?”

I swallowed hard, clearing my throat.

“I mustn’t show weakness,” I told myself. “I must stay in control.”

But matters of the heart? Matters of th