"Yes, I am", Avery said as she moved back from him.
This wasn't how she wanted him to find out.
Fuck.
She didn't even know how to tell him.
Alex's eyes widened as he stood up from his seat.
He gritted his teeth.
He moved in front of her and bent in front of her. Holding her arms, he lowered his voice.
"Why didn't you tell me?"
Avery swatted his hands away and chuckled.
"Tell you what? What would you do? Did you even believe me when I said Veronica was alive?"
"Talking about her. Does she know you're here?"
Alex loosened his turtleneck.
"This isn't about Veronica."
Avery rolled her eyes at him.
"Whatever. I'm done treating your wound. You can go now."
Alex paused in his tracks.
"What do you mean by ' I can go now '?"
"I mean, leave when I need you; I'd call you," Avery exclaimed.
Alex's breathing hitched.
Was she sacking him?
Gosh, how much had he fucked up.
"Babe..."
He closed the space between them, but she moved back.
" I'm sorry. I.. I don't know what to do to gain back your trust, but I fucked up, and I'm sorry. Please give me another chance. If you want me to stay in the shadows, I'd do so, but please don't push me away."
Alex stared at the floor.
His chest tightened.
Every word she spoke reminded him of how badly he had failed her.
Slowly..
He lowered himself to his knees.
His fingers wrapped around hers.
"Please.."
Avery scoffed.
"Stand up, Alex."
"Not until you forgive me, babe."
" Stand up, you piece of shit."
Alex raised his head and met her gaze.
Her bloodshot eyes stared back at him.
He pushed himself to his feet.
"You can occupy the guest room. I have to think about what I'd do with you later."