Chapter 156

Liam's mind raced, his thoughts still consumed by the lingering memory of the kiss he had shared with Amelia. He struggled to find the right words, his stammered response betraying his inner turmoil.

"N... no," he managed to utter, his voice wavering. "I just... I wanted you to rest, to settle in." His words carried a hint of evasion, his mind preoccupied with the secret he held close.

Lila's eyes searched his face, her expression a mix of longing and uncertainty. Sensing something amiss, she reached across the table, her hand gently touching his.

"Liam, I can sense something's bothering you," she said softly, her voice filled with genuine concern. "You can talk to me.

Liam felt the weight of his own silence pressing upon him.

"I... I'm sorry," he finally murmured, his voice laden with guilt. "It's just... things have been complicated lately. There are thoughts, memories..." His voice trailed off, his words failing to capture the depth of his inner struggle.

Lila observed Liam's di