Chapter 421

Maddy’s POV

Jason sighs heavily, rubbing the back of his neck. “I just don’t want to complicate things, Maddy. I don’t want to make her feel like she has to choose between me and whatever she’s dealing with.”

I can hear the frustration in his voice, and I understand where he’s coming from. But I also know that he’s not being fair to himself or to Layla by pretending. 

They’re both dancing around the truth, and it’s only a matter of time before everything comes to a head.

“Jason,” I say, my voice steady, “you don’t have to make her choose. But you also don’t have to keep pretending like there’s nothing between you. Layla’s scared, but if you don’t start being honest with her…and with yourself…you might lose the chance to see where this could go.”

He doesn’t say anything for a long moment, and I can see that he’s thinking about what I’ve said. 

I’m not sure if he’s ready to face the truth, but I hope that this convers