Chapter 86: CHAPTER 86: Grasping at Connections

　　The world seemed to tilt on its axis. Love? The words hung in the air, a beautiful declaration that felt utterly perfect, and yet in that moment, all I could think about was how screwed I was.

　　Tears welled up in my eyes, blurring the image of Alexander's concerned face as he leaned closer. My throat constricted, making it impossible to form a single word.

　　"Ava?" His voice was laced with alarm, his hand reaching out to cup my cheek. "Hey, what's wrong? Why are you crying?"

　　The touch of his hand sent a fresh wave of emotions surging through me. His concern, his misinterpretation of my tears–it was all too much to bear. My carefully constructed facade crumbled, replaced by a raw, choked sob that escaped my lips.

　　"I-I..." I tried to speak, but the words wouldn't come. My voice, usually so steady, was now a pathetic croak. Tears streamed down my face, hot and relentless. Shame burned in my chest, a counterpoint to the aching love that threatened to consume me.