Page 33 of Wild Tangled Hearts

"I completely get why you might have your reservations, but let's not forget the significance of giving people the benefit of the doubt," Kavya asserts, her gaze locking onto mine with intent. "Additionally," she continues, "it's equally important to open up and discuss your concerns and emotions with those individuals. Your track record on that front isn't exactly stellar."

I arch an eyebrow and pretend not to know what she's getting at, although deep down, I'm fully aware she's hit the nail on the head. I feign innocence and reply, “What do you mean? I’m an excellent communicator.”

She chuckles and shakes her head, then leans forward, her gaze steady. "Just don’t jump to conclusions until you talk to him about it. We all have private aspects of our lives, and sometimes, messages or relationships with others might not mean what they seem on the surface. There could be explanations that you're not aware of."

I take a moment to absorb Kavya's words. She has a point; I hadn't considered that there might be more to the story. "You think I'm jumping to conclusions too quickly?"

Kavya nods. "It's possible. This guy might have his reasons for those messages. If you're interested in him, you should have an open and honest conversation about your concerns."

Her advice resonates with me, and I start to see things from a different perspective. Maybe I had been too quick to judge Damien based on a few messages. I should give him a chance to explain.

"You're right," I admit, even though I have no idea how the text messages could mean anything besides what they said.

Kavya smiles encouragingly. "Remember, relationships require trust and communication. Allow him to explain; hopefully, you'll find some clarity."

Reader’s Choice:

What should Bella do next?

Answer Damien’s text and go on another date with him. Turn to this page.

Take a little more time to think about things, and spend the night alone. Turn to this page.

Chapter14

Damien

COINCIDENTAL CROSSINGS

Iwander through the bustling outdoor art market, enveloped by the vibrant tapestry of creativity on display. The warm night air carries the irresistible scent of street food, and the symphony of laughter from fellow art enthusiasts fills the ample open space. A few of my students spot me, and their infectious energy radiates as they excitedly share their art discoveries before darting back into the crowd. I release a sigh and try to enjoy myself, but I’m finding it difficult.

Usually, I relish being alone with my thoughts, but tonight feels different — lonely. Especially when I could be with Damien. But I've been avoiding his text messages and calls. I know I should respond but I haven’t gathered the confidence to confront him.

What if Kavya's wrong and the only explanation is that he's playing me?

Lost in my thoughts, I accidentally collide with someone. “Shoot, sorry,” I mutter.

I’m about to walk away until I glance up, and my gaze lands on those stormy blue eyes that I haven’t been able to stop dreaming about. “Damien,” I gasp, not expecting to see him here.

"Bella.” He appears just as stunned as I am, and he rubs the back of his neck, his usual cocky confidence gone. "I should have known you'd be at something like this. You “with someone?” His gaze is dark when he looks around.

“No,” I admit.

He gives a stiff nod, but I see his expression relaxes slightly.

I swallow hard, falling into his intense gaze, feeling my knees weakening. "What are you doing here?"

"My team is in charge of event security.” That broody is on full display, and his lips thin before he continues, "I was hoping you'd have returned my calls. I wanted to bring you here myself."

“I was going to…it’s just…” I stumble over the words, glancing away.

“I thought things were good between us.”

“They were. I mean, they are, but…”Just spit it out, Bella.

His eyes lock onto mine, his frown deepening, waiting for me to continue.

Taking a deep breath, I fidget with the hem of my dress, my fingers betraying my nervousness. "I saw some texts on your phone the other night. They were from someone named Stacey and Lexi. I know I shouldn’t have read them, but they just kinda popped up, and—“

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