Chapter 219

[Cordelia]

I peel my eyes away from my baby to look up at my friend. "Henri," I sighed. "We've talked about this. I thought we had an understanding."

"We have talked about our friendship remaining as it always has been, but that doesn't mean I'm okay with you traveling south alone." He scoffs. "Even if you do not have feelings for me, I still care about you too much to risk your safety."

"I appreciate your concern..." I start to say but he interrupts me.

"Don't."

"I'm sorry," I raise an eyebrow at his sharp tone. I refuse to be scolded in my own house.

"Don't disregard my feelings as if they aren't real or don't matter," I can hear the hurt in his voice and realize his anger is a way to mask his pain. "I can't pretend not to care for you. I wish I could forget how to want you. It would make it easier for us both. But I have my heart set on you, Ms Delaroux. Even if you never return my affections."

Breaking eye contact first, I look down at my little one and try not to cry. I have