Page 161 of My Ruthless Opponent

With the way I am getting attached to him, I fear getting hurt.

I want him. And I want him to want me. With an equal intensity like mine.

I fear, that he might break my heart. I fear that he would leave.

I started wanting more than the affair and I am scared to voice it.

These emotions, these feelings leave me powerless. And I don’t like being powerless.

When my life was in tatters, I had decided to never allow anyone close.

Andrew cheated on me and I was scarred to ever try dating anyone seriously. Not that I had any time to do so. I wasn’t ready for a relationship. Then what happened to me?

These feelings just sneaked up on me. I don’t understand which feeling to embrace. If I don’t decide fast, these emotions might take over me and take matters into their own hands.

Raleigh halts. “We’re here.” He whispers in my ear and I feel him standing in front of me. “I am going to take off your blindfold now.”

He slowly removes the blindfold away and I blink several times. I stare up at Raleigh who is standing with his back at the resort.

His gaze flickers over my shoulder. When I start to turn, he grabs my shoulders, stopping me.

He licks his lip, shifting from one foot to another.

I stare at him, mouth agape. “You’re nervous?”

He narrows his eyes. Shakes his head. Then says, “Yes.”

I start giggling.

“Hannah,” he says in warning.

“I’m sorry.” My eyes snap down. I roll my lips between my teeth, trying to stop the laughter.

When the urge to laugh is gone, I look up. I shouldn’t have. Because Raleigh is still glaring at me.

I snort before bursting into laughter.

“Shut up.” He hisses. That makes me laugh harder. I grip his bicep as I hunch over, giggling.

“You were nervous too.” He grits out and I snort.

“You’re right. It’s just that… Seeing the mighty RJ fidgeting is amusing.” A giggle bubbles up again.

“Amusing, huh?” he cocks a brow.

“More like hilarious.” A tear slides down my cheek and I wipe it.

“At least I admit I am nervous.” He grumbles, looking so adorable I can’t stop myself from pulling his cheeks.

“You’re cute.” I chuckle, shaking my head.

He steps closer and towers over me. He then traces my lower lip with his thumb. “And you’re fucking beautiful.”

All the humor evaporates as I stare into his eyes.

“Laugh more often, princess. Even if it is at my expense.” He gives me a half-smile, his dimple making its appearance. My heart skips several beats.

Would he ever stop trying to steal my heart?

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