Chapter 8

Elena’s POV

Alex, how could you keep this from me? I asked,my voice shaking with anger and hurt. "How could you lie to me about something so important?"

I shook my head, trying to process this new information. An ex-wife? It explained so much - the tension between them, the way Rachel seemed to know Alex's secrets.

Alex sighed and rubbed his temples. "I know I should have told you, Elena. But I was scared. I didn't want to lose you."

I laughed, a bitter sound. "You're losing me now," I said. "How can I trust you after this?"

Alex took a step forward, his eyes pleading. "Elena, please understand. My marriage to Rachel was a mistake. It was a long time ago, and it didn't mean anything. I was young and stupid, and I didn't know what I wanted."

I raised an eyebrow. "You were young and stupid? That's no excuse. You're still keeping secrets from me, Alex. How can I believe that you're telling me the truth now?"

Alex hesitated, and for a moment, I thought I saw a glimmer of fear in his eyes