CHAPTER 171

As Leon held me close, the tension between us remained, unspoken but tangible. I could feel the warmth of his body against mine, his steady heartbeat reverberating through my chest. And yet, the doubt clung to me, whispering insecurities that I couldn’t quite silence. Was I being irrational? Maybe. But rationality had never been a strong suit when emotions were involved.

Leon pulled back slightly, his eyes searching mine. “You sure you’re okay?” His voice was gentle, almost cautious.

I forced another smile, trying to bury the jealousy that was clawing its way to the surface. “Yeah. Just a lot on my mind, I guess.”

He nodded, but I could see the flicker of doubt in his gaze. He knew me too well. Still, he didn’t press further, instead offering a soft kiss on my forehead before stepping away. “We should head back inside. There’s still a lot to go over with Iva.”

There it was again—her name, like a needle pricking my skin. I nodded, unable to trust myself to speak without betraying my em